Millwall star lifeless at 26: Matija Sarkic tragically passes away

Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away at the age of just 26-years-old after falling ill while on international duty with Montenegro.

The goalkeeper’s sudden passing has shocked the footballing world with tributes pouring in for the Millwall star who has previously played for a host of English clubs.

Sarkic was in the coastal Montegro town of Budva when he reportedly fell ill while with friends at an apartment on Saturday morning.

An ambulance was immediately called to the scene, but attempts to save his life failed as he died around 6.30am local time.

Grimsby-born Montenegro international, Sarkic, was recently in action just over a week ago when he played the entirety of an international friendly defeat against Belgium.

Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away at the age of just 26-years-old

Sarkic made 33 appearances for Millwall after joining the club from Wolves in August 2023

Tributes have poured in for the 26-year-old goalkeeper who passed away on Saturday morning

Championship side Millwall have revealed the club are devastated upon hearing the news and have issued a short statement in response to Sarkic’s passing.

Posting on the club’s official website, an announcement read: ‘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 statement concluded.

Sarkic passed away on Saturday morning after falling ill in the coastal Montenegro town of Budvar

Sarkic moved to The Den only last year after completing a transfer from Wolves where he signed a long-term contract and immediately became a permanent figure in the first-team.

His talents saw the former Aston Villa and Wolves goalkeeper cement a starting role as he went on to make 33 appearances for the club, making 77 saves and keeping 12 clean sheets.

The Grimsby-born player began his career at Belgian side Anderlecht before moving to Villa in 2015 where he was subsequently loaned out to Wigan Athletic, Havant & Waterlooville and Livingston.

Wolves made a permanent move for Sarkic in 2020, with further loan spells at Shrewsbury Town, Birmingham City and Stoke City following before joining Millwall.

More to follow.