Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away at the age of 26 after falling ill.
The Grimsby-born Montenegro international, who joined Millwall from Wolves last summer, made 31 appearances in the Championship during the 2023/24 season. Sarkic reportedly became unwell at an apartment in Budva while on international duty, with ambulances called at around 6:30 am local time.
Sarkic came through the Aston Villa academy and had loan spells at clubs like Wigan and Livingston before transferring to Wolves, where he did not make a senior appearance. He later enjoyed loan stints at Shrewsbury, Birmingham, and Stoke before moving to Millwall on a permanent deal last summer, having played just three times for Wolves.
A statement from Millwall 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 EFL expressed its sorrow: “The EFL and the entire football community are devastated to hear of Matija’s passing. Thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone at @MillwallFC.”