Matija Sarkic signed for Millwall last summer after leaving Wolves; the 26-year-old also played for Aston Villa, Birmingham City and Stoke City; Sarkic, who was born in Grimsby, represented Montenegro
Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has died aged 26, the club have announced.
A statement on the club’s official website said: “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.
“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.”
Sarkic, who started his career in Anderlecht’s academy, made 33 appearances for the club last season after joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023.
He also played for a number of other British clubs including Aston Villa, Birmingham City, Stoke City and Wigan and won eight caps for Montenegro. He also spent time on loan at Stratford Town, Havant & Waterlooville and Livingston.
Sarkic was away on international duty and and played the full game for Montenegro against Belgium just over a week ago, producing a man-of-the-match display.
Millwall Supporters’ Club posted on X: “What horrendous news to wake up to this morning that our goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has died at the young age of 26. Devastating news for his friends and family and for all of us associated with Millwall. Once a lion, always a lion.”