Sarkic Dies Tragic After Falling Sick, Condolences Flow For The Goalkeeper

Millwall goalkeeper, Matija Sarkic, tragically passed away photo: (@MillwallFC)

JAKARTA - Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic died tragically at the age of 26 after falling ill in his home country, Montenegro. The player's sudden death shocked the world of football, with many condolences coming to Millwall's star who previously played for a number of English clubs.

Sarkic was in the coastal town of Montenegro, Budva, when he reportedly fell ill while with his friends in an apartment on Saturday morning, June 15. The ambulance was immediately called to the location, but an attempt to save his life failed and he was pronounced dead at around 6.30 am local time.

Millwall Football Club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26.

— Millwall FC (@MillwallFC) June 15, 2024

Millwall Football Club is completely disabled to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26.

The player reportedly enjoyed dinner with his friends at a restaurant in the area on Friday night, June 14, before returning to the accommodation where he was staying. Local police are now on site and investigations are ongoing, but reports in Montenegro state that the death was caused by natural causes.

Sarkic, son of Montenegro ambassador Bojan Sarkic, recently featured in an international friendly against Belgium on June 5. Championship club Millwall expressed deep sadness over the news and issued a brief response to the deaths of their players. They also blank out their X profile as a sign of respect.

In an announcement on the club's official website, it was stated: "Millwall Football Club was devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic had died at the age of 26. Sarkic, Lions' number one goalkeeper, made 33 appearances for the club since joining Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023. An international Montenegro player, Matija proudly represents his country on various occasions. Everyone at the club sends love and condolences to Matija's family and friends at this very sad time. The club will not provide further comment at this time and request that the privacy of the Matija family is respected."

Sarkic has made 33 appearances for Millwall in Championship last season after being the club's first-choice goalkeeper. The talent of the former Aston Villa and Wolves goalkeeper made him soon a fan favorite at Millwall thanks to his strong performance.

A number of clubs from the Premier League and all EFL divisions quickly published their condolences after the shocking news, including Leeds United and Crystal Palace.

UEFA, European football's governing body, also expressed their condolences, saying: "On behalf of European football, we extend our deepest condolences to friends, family, and all those who know Matija. Rest in peace, Matija."

Sarkic made a total of 175 appearances during his professional career in English football and nine senior appearances for the national team Montenegro after making his debut at the age of 22.