Millwall and Montenegro in Mourning
Millwall and Montenegro are in deep mourning after the sudden death of goalkeeper Matija Sarkic. The 26-year-old fell ill while on international duty and passed away in an apartment in Budva, Montenegro. Ambulances arrived at the scene at around 6:30 am local time but sadly Sarkic could not be saved.
Born in Grimsby Matija Sarkic started his career at Aston Villa‘s academy. He spent time on loan at Wigan and Livingston before moving to Wolves. Sarkic joined Millwall from Wolves last summer and made 31 appearances in the Championship during the 2023/24 season.
Club and Fans Share Grief
Millwall Football Club expressed their deep sorrow in a statement:
“Millwall Football Club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26. Sarkic, The Lions’ number one goalkeeper, made 33 appearances for the club since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023. A Montenegro international, Matija proudly represented his country on numerous occasions. Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija’s family and friends at this immensely sad time. The club will make no further comment at this time and asks that the privacy of Matija’s family is respected.”
The English Football League (EFL) also shared their condolences:
“The EFL and the entire football community is devastated to hear of Matija’s passing. Thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone at Millwall FC.”
Fans and supporters have flooded social media with tributes. The Millwall Supporters’ Club posted:
“What horrendous news to wake up to this morning that our goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has died at the 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.”
Heartfelt Tributes from the Football Community
Tributes have poured in from all corners of the football community. One fan wrote:
“Heartbreaking news this morning that our former goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away at the age of 26. Rest in peace.”
A Millwall fan expressed their grief: “I’m absolutely speechless reading the news. RIP Matija Sarkic.”
Another said: “Unbelievably sad news this morning regarding Matija Sarkic, 26 is no age. Thoughts are with his family and friends at this terribly sad time.”
Fans from his previous clubs also shared their sorrow. A Wolves fan remembered him fondly: “RIP Matija. Always contributed a lot to the community when with us at Wolves. Will be sorely missed.”
A Stoke fan added: “Devastating news, RIP Matija, thoughts are with all his friends and family at this awful time.”
The loss of Matija Sarkic is felt deeply across the football world. His contributions on and off the field have left a lasting impact and he will be remembered by many.
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