Millwall star dead at 26: Matija Sarkic tragically passes away after falling ill as tributes pour in for the goalkeeper

Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away at the age of just 26-years-old after falling ill while on international duty with Montenegro.

The goalkeeper's sudden passing has shocked the footballing world with tributes pouring in for the Millwall star who has previously played for a host of English clubs.

Sarkic was in the coastal Montegro town of Budva when he reportedly fell ill while with friends at an apartment on Saturday morning.

An ambulance was immediately called to the scene, but attempts to save his life failed as he died around 6.30am local time.

Local police are now at the scene and an investigation is underway, but reports in Montenegro suggest the death was due to natural causes. 

Grimsby-born Montenegro international, Sarkic, was recently in action just over a week ago when he played the entirety of an international friendly defeat against Belgium. 

Championship side Millwall have revealed the club's devastation upon hearing the news and have issued a short statement in response to Sarkic's passing. They have also blacked out their X profile out of respect.

Posting on the club's official website, an announcement read: '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.

'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,' the statement concluded.

Sarkic moved to The Den only last year after completing a transfer from Wolves where he signed a long-term contract and immediately became a permanent figure in the first-team.

His talents saw the former Aston Villa and Wolves goalkeeper cement a starting role as he went on to make 33 appearances for the club, making 77 saves and keeping 12 clean sheets. 

A Millwall supporters group posted an emotional announcement on X, adding: 'RIP Matija Sarkic. 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.'

The Grimsby-born player began his career at Belgian side Anderlecht before moving to Villa in 2015 where he was subsequently loaned out to Wigan Athletic, Havant & Waterlooville and Livingston.

Wolves made a permanent move for Sarkic in 2020, with further loan spells at Shrewsbury Town, Birmingham City and Stoke City following before he joined Millwall.

Clubs from across the Premier League and Championship were quick to publish their own condolences following the shock news, with Leeds posting a tribute online.

'The thoughts of everyone at #LUFC are with Matija’s family, friends and all connected with Millwall at this incredibly sad time. Rest in peace, Matija,' said Leeds.

Newly-promoted Premier League side Ipswich said: 'The thoughts of all at Ipswich Town are with Matija's family and friends and everyone at Millwall at this incredibly sad time.'

Crystal Palace echoed similar sentiments, adding: 'Everyone at Crystal Palace sends their deepest condolences to Matija's family, friends and the club at this very sad time.'

More to follow.