Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic dies aged 26, club confirms

Millwall goalkeeper and Montenegro international Matija Sarkic has died at the age of 26, the club have announced. He died unexpectedly following a short illness.

The Grimsby-born keeper represented Montenegro internationally and reportedly fell ill at an apartment in Budva while away on international duty. Despite immediate medical attention, he sadly died around 6:30am local time.

Sarkic played for several British football teams over his career, including Aston Villa, Wolves, Birmingham City and Stoke City. Just last week, Sarkic performed commendably against Belgium in a match where despite their 2-0 defeat, he was awarded the man of the match following an impressive tally of nine saves.

Millwall confirmed the news in a statement, which read: "Millwall football club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26.

"Sarkic, The Lions' No1 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."