Tributes pour in after brutal death of international goalkeeper Matija Sarkic, aged 26

English football club Millwall are “completely devastated” after the brutal death of their goalkeeper Matija Sarkic, aged 26.

Sarkic died suddenly after falling ill while on international duty with Montenegro.

He was apparently at a friend’s apartment when he fell ill Saturday morning. An ambulance was called, but he could not be rescued.

Get the latest news with the 7NEWS app: download it today

He was Millwall’s No.1 goalkeeper, making 33 appearances for the side who finished 13th in the Championship that season.

He has also made nine appearances for Montenegro, including just two weeks ago in a friendly against Belgium.

Sarkic played for Montenegro two weeks ago. Credit: Getty Images

The club released a statement confirming his death.

“Millwall Football Club is completely devastated to announce the passing of Matija Sarkic at the age of 26,” they said.

“Sarkic, the Lions’ number one goalkeeper, has made 33 appearances for the club since arriving from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023.

“A Montenegrin international, Matija has proudly represented his country on nine occasions.

“Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija’s family and friends at this extremely sad time.

“The club will make no further comment at this time and ask that the privacy of Matija’s family be respected.”

The Montenegrin Football Federation also paid tribute.

“Our dear Matija, we will miss you, as well as your cheerful spirit, your work ethic and your excellent defense,” the Montenegrin Football Federation (FSCG) said in a statement, describing Sarkic as an “always smiling guy.”

“On behalf of European football, our deepest condolences go out to friends, family and all those who knew him. Rest in peace, Matija,” governing body UEFA said in a statement.

Sarkic began his career at Aston Villa in the English Premier League but never made a senior appearance.

He spent time at a number of lower league clubs on loan before joining Wolves in 2020.

He was loaned out again to Shrewsbury Town where he made 26 appearances and then to Birmingham where he played 23 times.

“Everyone at Birmingham City is shocked and saddened to hear the news of the passing of our former goalkeeper, Matija Sarkic, at the age of 26. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and to all who knew him,” the statement said. the club said in a statement.

Former EPL striker and commentator Stan Collymore said: “Truly horrible news regarding the death of Millwall and Montenegro goalkeeper Matija Sarkic, aged just 26. A young man with everything in front of him, puts everything in perspective. I offer my deepest condolences to his family.