Oliver Sarkic’s world was turned upside down when he received a phone call from his father informing him that his twin brother, Matija Sarkic, had suddenly passed away at just 26 years old. Matija, a talented goalkeeper for Montenegro and Millwall, had collapsed unexpectedly due to heart failure while on holiday. The news was devastating for Oliver, who had just seen his brother alive at his wedding where Matija had served as best man alongside their older brother. Matija’s passing came just days after he had been named man of the match in a friendly against Belgium, a testament to his promising career that was tragically cut short.
Matija’s journey in football had taken him through various clubs in England and Scotland, including Aston Villa, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Millwall, where he had finally seemed to have found his home. He was described by his teammates and managers as a dedicated professional who was always willing to go the extra mile in training and games. Matija’s infectious energy, sense of humor, and love of travel and good coffee endeared him to everyone he met. He was known for his ability to light up a room and bring a smile to people’s faces with his playful antics.
Despite his untimely passing, Matija had fulfilled his dream of representing his country, earning nine senior caps for Montenegro. However, his ultimate goal of playing in the Premier League remained unfulfilled. Matija’s family, who had always believed in his potential as a footballer, now grappled with the loss of a son and brother who had left an indelible mark on everyone he met. The Sarkic family had to come to terms with the fact that they would never see Matija achieve his full potential on the football field, adding to the immense grief they already felt from his sudden death.
Matija’s funeral in Montenegro brought together family, friends, and colleagues from the football world to pay their respects to a young man who had left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Oliver, in a heartfelt tribute at the memorial service organized by the Football Association of Montenegro, remembered his brother as a loving sibling, talented goalkeeper, and hardworking professional. Matija was laid to rest alongside his grandparents, who had always believed in his abilities and supported his footballing dreams.
Matija’s journey in football, from his early days as a defender to his rise as a promising goalkeeper, was marked by his dedication, professionalism, and unwavering belief in his abilities. He faced challenges and setbacks along the way but always remained determined to improve and reach the top of his game. His former teammates and managers spoke highly of his work ethic, humility, and eagerness to learn from those around him. Matija’s passion for the game and his ability to connect with people on and off the field left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
In the wake of Matija’s passing, the football community mourned the loss of a young talent whose potential was cut short far too soon. His family, teammates, and fans struggled to come to terms with the void left by his absence and the realization that they would never see him achieve his dreams. Matija’s legacy as a talented goalkeeper, loving brother, and beloved friend will continue to live on in the memories of those who knew him, a testament to the impact he had on the lives of those around him.
