English club Millwall FC issued a heartbreaking statement to confirm the death of their goalkeeper Matija Sarkic.
He was 26 years old. The eight-cap Montenegro international reportedly fell ill while on international duty in town of Budva.
The club announced the tragic news online. They expressed their deep sorrow and grief over Sarkic’s untimely passing. A statement from Millwall read:
“Millwall football club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26.” Sarkic, Lions’ No1 goalkeeper made 33 appearances for the English club since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023.
Tributes Pour In for the Late Matija Sarkic
Matija Sarkic’s impact on football community was profound. Tributes from former clubs and teammates have been pouring in. West Ham United expressed condolences in a social media post.
“We are saddened to learn of the passing of Matija Šarkić. Our condolences to everybody at Millwall as well as Matija’s family and friends.”
Aston Villa also expressed their condolences. “Everyone at Aston Villa is deeply saddened by news of the passing of our former goalkeeper Matija Šarkić.
Matija joined our Academy in 2015 and spent five years with the club, during which time he made his full international debut for Montenegro, before departing in the summer of 2020.
The thoughts and condolences of all at the club are with his family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”
Similarly Birmingham City where Sarkic had spent time on loan, shared shock and sadness.
“Everyone at Birmingham City is shocked and saddened to learn of the news. Our former goalkeeper Matija Sarkic, has passed away at the age of 26. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family friends and all those that knew him.”
Millwall Supporters’ Club also expressed grief on social media. “What horrendous news to wake up to this morning that our goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has died at young age of 26.”
“Devastating news for his friends and family. And for all of us associated with Millwall. Once a lion, always a lion.”
A Promising English Career Cut Short
Sarkic had promising career starting at Anderlecht’s academy before being signed by Aston Villa in 2015. The Grimsby-born goalkeeper joined Wolves in 2020.
He impressed during loan spells with English clubs Shrewsbury, Birmingham and Stoke. His performances convinced Millwall to secure his services permanently last summer. He went on to make 33 appearances for The Lions.
In his last outing for Montenegro Sarkic was named man of the match after making nine saves in a 2-0 defeat to Euro 2024 hopefuls Belgium. His dedication and skill on field were evident. He will be deeply missed by his teammates, fans and football community at large.
Millwall has requested privacy for Sarkic’s family during this difficult time. No further comments will be made by club. The football world mourns the loss of talented and beloved player. His career and life were tragically cut short.
