Millwall pays tribute to Matija Sarkic who passed away suddenly in June

Matija Sarkic passed away suddenly in June 2024 after suffering heart failure whilst on holiday with his family. The death rocked Millwall Football Club following a series of unfortunate events around the club in recent years. Now, the South London club is planning an everlasting tribute for Sarkic.

Per SunSport, Sarkic's number 20 shirt will be retired by the club, an honour bestowed upon those who earn the utmost respect from a club. Millwall will also name a new award the 'Matija Sarkic Save of the Season Award', which will be awarded to the best save across the men's, women's and academy sides.

The Millwall Supporter's Club has also funded a mural in memory of Sarkic which is set to be unveiled before their Championship opener against Watford.

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Sarkic's passing was incredibly unexpected, let's take a look at how the football world reacted at the time.

The news was announced by Millwall, Sarkic's club at the time of his passing.

"Millwall Football Club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26," a statement on the club's website read.

Sarkic joined The Lions from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August last year, making 33 appearances for the club, per Transfermarkt.

"Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija's family and friends at this immensely sad time," Millwall continues.

"The club will make no further comment at this time and asks that the privacy of Matija's family is respected," the statement ended.

According to local media, Sarkic felt unwell and suddenly collapsed at his apartment.

Earlier this month, on 6 June, Sarkic had represented Montenegro's national team in a friendly against Belgium (2-0 loss). In total, he was capped 9 times for his country.

Sarkic also played for the likes of Wolverhampton, Aston Villa, Shrewsbury Town and Birmingham City, amongst other clubs.

Both Wolverhampton and Aston Villa expressed their condolences on social media following the death of their former goalkeeper, who will be dearly missed. RIP Matija Sarkic.

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