Millwall Goalkeeper Matija Sarkic Dies at 26

Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic tragically passed away at the age of 26. Sarkic, a Montenegro international had joined the Championship club from Wolves in August 2023 and played 33 matches last season. His last appearance for Montenegro was in a friendly loss to Belgium on 5 June. The Montenegro Football Association (FSCG) announced Sarkic’s sudden death on Saturday morning, with reports stating he collapsed at his apartment in Budva. The FSCG mourned his untimely loss, describing him as a beloved national team member and endlessly cheerful individual.

Millwall FC expressed profound devastation, extending heartfelt condolences to Matija’s family and friends during this immensely sad time. Born in Grimsby, Sarkic began his youth career with Belgian club Anderlecht before moving to Aston Villa. His professional journey included loan spells at Wigan, Stratford Town, Havant & Waterlooville and Livingston before joining Wolves permanently in 2020. Sarkic subsequently had loan stints at Shrewsbury Town, Birmingham City (where he made 23 appearances in the 2021-22 season) and Stoke City before joining Millwall.

Aston Villa also mourned Sarkic’s passing, noting his time in their academy and his achievements with Montenegro. BBC pundit Micah Richards, who was at Villa during Sarkic’s academy years expressed profound sadness and sent condolences to the family. The Football Association, Professional Footballers’ Association and English Football League expressed condolences to Sarkic’s family and friends. Sarkic’s tenure at Millwall where he arrived last summer aiming to solidify his position as the club’s main goalkeeper was marked by initial success including a clean sheet on his debut.

However, a mid-season injury sidelined him until December, coinciding with managerial changes at the club. Under Neil Harris, Sarkic’s late-season performances highlighted his resilience and skill making a lasting impression on team and fans. Former Millwall captain Paul Robinson expressed his sorrow emphasizing Sarkic’s positive impact both on and off the pitch.