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MILLWALL goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away aged just 26.
The nine-cap Montenegro star reportedly fell ill while on international duty in the town of Budva.
Montenegrin state-owned TV station RTCG report that Sarkic went for a walk with pals, had dinner in a restaurant and returned to his apartment early.
He is believed to have told friends he felt ill after waking up at around 6am this morning and they called an ambulance but it was too late. Millwall confirmed the sad news in a statement, which read: “Millwall football club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26.
“Sarkic, The Lions’ No1 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.”
Millwall Supporters’ Club posted on X: “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.”
“Awful news RIP Matij,” commented one fan. Another added: “Absolutely shocking news, and so young what a huge loss to his family and the football family.”
A third posted: “RIP Matija from a Birmingham fan. Great keeper, great bloke. Such awful news.”
Sarkic was named man of the match in his last outing for Montenegro as he made nine saves in a 2-0 defeat to Euro 2024 hopefuls Belgium. The talented No1 was also handed the honour in Millwall’s final game of the season – a 1-0 win over Swansea. His father Bojan Sarkic is a Montenegrin diplomat and his twin brother Oliver is also a footballer. — Sun.
Bongani Ndlovu
Mathew Masinge