Matija Sarkic: 8 things you should know about Millwall goalkeeper who tragically died

The football world is in mourning following the shocking and untimely demise of Matija Sarkic, the Millwall journeyman goalkeeper whose promising career was tragically cut short at the tender age of 26. 

The loss of this talented young footballer has sent shockwaves through the football community, as they mourn the death of a player who had so much potential.

Here are eight things you should know about the late Montenegrin international goalkeeper.

Matija Sarkic, a 26-year-old footballer, was born in Grimsby, England to a Montenegrin father and a British mother.

His father Bojan is a diplomat, who worked with the European Union, and his British mother, Natalie Srakic-Todd, is a journalist.

Sarkic's footballing journey began at Belgian giants Anderlecht in 2005 before he moved to the youth team of Premier League club Aston Villa, where he worked his way through the ranks.

However, he departed Aston Villa in 2017 without making an appearance for the senior team. 

 After failing to make a single appearance for Aston Villa's senior team, Sarkic embarked on a journeyman career.

He enjoyed loan spells at clubs like Wigan Athletic, Birmingham City, and Stoke City.

In total, the talented goalkeeper had seven loan spells in his young career.

In 2023, Sarkic finally found a home at Millwall after failing to pen down a permanent stay in several clubs.

He made 77 saves and kept 12 clean sheets in 32 appearances to help the club finish in a credible 13th place in the Championship.

In what has now become his final match for Montenegro, Sarkic put on a show, being named the man of the match. 

 Despite a 2-0 defeat against the Red Devils, Sarkic made an incredible nine saves.

Sadly, Sarkic passed away at the age of 26 while on international duty for Montenegro. 

He was confirmed dead at the hospital after becoming suddenly ill in an apartment in Budva.

Matija Sarkic had a twin brother named Oliver, and the two shared a special bond and memories before Matija's untimely death.

Sarkic was single at the time of his passing, leaving behind a legacy as a talented goalkeeper who had found a home at Millwall after a challenging journeyman career.