Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away at the age of 26.
The Montenegro international, who joined the Championship club from Wolves in August 2023, made 33 appearances last season.
Sarkic last played for his country in a 2-0 friendly defeat by Belgium on June 5.
According to the Montenegro Football Association (FSCG), he died suddenly on Saturday morning, with local media reporting that he collapsed at his apartment in Budva.
The FSCG described Sarkic as a "beloved member" of the national squad and an "eternally smiling guy."
"His untimely death has caused great pain to the Sarkic family," it added.
Millwall said they were "completely devastated".
"Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija's family and friends at this immensely sad time," the Lions said.
Born in Grimsby, Sarkic began his youth career with Belgian side Anderlecht before joining Aston Villa.
He had loan stints at Wigan, Stratford Town, Havant & Waterlooville, and Livingston before making a permanent move to Wolves in 2020.
He was subsequently loaned to Shrewsbury Town, Birmingham City—where he made 23 appearances during the 2021-22 season—and Stoke City, before his transfer to Millwall.
Villa said on X: "Everyone at Aston Villa is deeply saddened.
"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."
The Football Association, Professional Footballers' Association, and English Football League extended their condolences to Sarkic's family and friends.