Millwall and Montenegro goalkeeper Matija Sarkic died on Saturday at the age of 26, the Championship club confirmed on Saturday.
Sarkic fell ill in his home country while on international duty. The Montenegrin newspaper Vijesti reported that Sarkic died in an apartment in Budva early in the morning.
“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.
“The club will not be making any further comments at this time and asks that the privacy of Matija's family be respected.”
“Our dear Matija, we will miss you and your cheerful spirit, your work ethic and your great defense,” the Football Association of Montenegro (FSCG) said in a statement, describing Sarkic as an “always smiling guy.”
“On behalf of European football, our deepest condolences go out to Matija's friends, family and everyone who knew him. Rest in peace, Matija,” UEFA's governing body said in a statement.
Sarkic made nine saves in Montenegro's 2-0 loss to Belgium in a friendly on Wednesday and was named man of the match for his outstanding performance.
Born in Grimsby, England, Sarkic played for Aston Villa and Belgian side Anderlecht at youth level. He made 33 appearances for Millwall after joining in August 2023 from Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers.
