June 17 – English-born Montenegro international goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically died at the age of just 26.
Sarkic, who played for Millwall in England’s Tier-2 Championship after representing a string of other clubs, fell ill in his home country while on international duty and is reported to have collapsed in an apartment in Budva on Saturday.
“Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija’s family and friends at this immensely sad time,” Millwall said in a statement.
Born in Grimsby, England, he made 33 appearances for Millwall after joining in August 2023 from Premier League Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Montenegro Football Association (FSCG) described Sarkic as an “always smiling guy.”
“Our dear Matija, we will miss you and your cheerful spirit, your work ethic and your great defending,” the federation said.
Sarkic made his international debut against Belarus in 2019 and played nine times for his country. He was in goal for Montenegro as recently as a 2-0 defeat to Belgium in a pre-Euros friendly and was named man of the match.
“On behalf of European football, our deepest condolences go to Matija’s friends, family and everybody who knew him. Rest in peace, Matija,” UEFA said in their own statement.
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