The Stoke City community is grieving the unexpected death of goalkeeper Matija Sarkic, who was only 26 years old.
Stoke City have paid tribute to goalkeeper Matija Sarkic, who has tragically passed away at the age of 26.
During his half-season loan with Stoke in 2023, Sarkic showcased his potential and was anticipated to join the club permanently that summer. Instead, he signed with Millwall, where he excelled by keeping two clean sheets against Stoke, helping secure the club’s position in the Championship, and cementing his role as Montenegro’s number one goalkeeper.
Sarkic’s death in his hometown of Budva, Montenegro, this morning has shocked the football community.
In a statement, Stoke City expressed their sorrow: “Stoke City Football Club is shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the Club’s former goalkeeper Matija Sarkic at the tragically young age of 26.
“A Montenegrin international, Matija joined the Potters on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers in January 2023 and featured in eight matches before returning to Molineux and subsequently transferring to Millwall last summer.
“The thoughts and condolences of everyone connected with Stoke City are with Matija’s family and friends at this sad time. Our support and sympathy are extended to Millwall Football Club and the Montenegrin national team, along with all those in football who counted Matija as a teammate, colleague, and friend.”
Other clubs have also paid their tributes.
Millwall released a statement saying: “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.”
Aston Villa, where Sarkic spent time in their youth team, also expressed their grief: “Everyone at Aston Villa is deeply saddened by news of the passing of our former goalkeeper Matija Sarkic. Matija joined our Academy in 2015 and spent five years with the club, during which time he made his full international debut for Montenegro before departing in the summer of 2020.
“The thoughts and condolences of all at the club are with his family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”
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