Matija Sarkic, the 26-year-old national goalkeeper of Montenegro, tragically passed away shortly after playing for the national team. The English Championship club, FC Millwall, where he played, announced his unexpected death. The cause of death was not disclosed by the club, but reports suggest that Sarkic needed medical help early in the morning.
Sarkic had recently played a test match against Belgium and stood in the goal for over 90 minutes. Just four days later, during a match against Georgia, he was not part of the squad. According to the Montenegrin public broadcaster RTCG, Sarkic woke up feeling ill around 6:00 am and friends called for an ambulance. Unfortunately, he passed away around 6:30 am. The previous evening, he had met with friends and had dinner at a restaurant.
Sarkic made his debut for the national team in November 2019 and had played nine international matches since then. He moved to England from RSC Anderlecht as a teenager in 2015. After several loan spells, he was signed permanently by Millwall in August 2023 and had been the first-choice goalkeeper since December of that year, playing 32 games in the last season.
The club expressed deep sadness at the loss and extended their condolences to Sarkic’s family and friends. They also requested privacy for the family during this difficult time. The Montenegrin Football Association described Sarkic as a beloved player and friend who was an integral part of the national team.
Sarkic’s sudden death has shocked the football community in Montenegro and beyond. His promising career and talent on the field will be remembered by fans and teammates alike. May he rest in peace.