Tributes as ex-Stratford Town goalkeeper Matija Sarkic dies aged just 26

Tributes have poured in for a former Stratford Town FC goalkeeper who has died aged just 26. Matija Sarkic died after falling ill in Montenegro.

Sarkic, who played for a number of West Midlands clubs including Aston Villa, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Birmingham City, fell ill in a flat in Budva after being on international duty, reports the Daily Mirror. His friends called 999 but he died at around 6.30am on Saturday (June 15).

Goalkeeper Sarkic spent time at RSC Anderlecht as a youth before joining Aston Villa. His five-year spell saw him on loan at Wigan Athletic, Stratford Town, Havant & Waterlooville and Livingston.

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Sarkic signed for Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020 and then had loan spells with Shrewsbury Town, Birmingham City and Stoke City before Millwall signed him permanently in 2023. He made 33 appearances last season, reports the Daily Mirror.

Millwall FC confirmed his death in a statement which said: “Millwall FC are completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26. Sarkic has made 33 appearances for the club since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023.

“Montenegro international Matija has proudly represented his country on numerous occasions. Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to his family and friends at this extremely sad time.”

In a post on X, his former club Stratford Town FC said: “Stratford Town FC are deeply saddened to hear the news that our former goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has passed away. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.”

Birmingham City FC told X: “Everyone at Birmingham City is shocked and saddened to learn that our former goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has passed away aged 26. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and everyone around. those who knew him.”

A statement from Wolverhampton Wanderers said: “Matija was someone who had time for anyone, no matter who they were. He was smart, bright, warm and funny and gave his all to his profession and the people around him. A teammate, colleague and friend. He will be missed by all of us.”

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