A top-flight manager has tragically died aged 44 after suffering a heart attack during a match in Serbia, plunging the world of football into mourning.
Radnicki 1923 manager Mladen Zizovic collapsed on the side of the pitch after suffering a heart attack 22 minutes into the Serbian club’s match with Mladost on Sunday evening.
His players and coaching staff were informed later in the match that Zizovic, who had immediately been rushed to hospital after receiving medical treatment, had tragically passed away — sparking heartbreaking scenes of devastation on the pitch.
Footage of the harrowing incident, which came 20 minutes after the match restarted, was shared to social media on Monday, with players breaking down in tears and comforting each other in mourning.
The game was initially suspended after Zizovic collapsed and was resumed by the referee once the Bosnian boss was transported to hospital.
After the players received the heartbreaking news, the referee abandoned the match.
Zizovic, who was taking charge of just his third game at Radnicki 1923 following his appointment on October 23, retired from his playing career in 2016.
The heartbreaking moment top-flight footballers learned their manager had died on Sunday
Radnicki 1923 boss Mladen Zizovic collapsed next to the pitch after suffering a heart attack
Players and staff were told that he had sadly died after the Bosnian was rushed to hospital
He made two appearances for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team, having spent all of his career in either his homeland or Albania.
In a tribute to Zizovic, who leaves behind three children, the Serbian FA wrote: ‘The Football Association of Serbia has received with deep sorrow and disbelief the news of the sudden death of FK Radnički 1923 coach Mladen Zizovic, who passed away during the Mozzart Bet Super League of Serbia match between Mladost and Radnicki 1923 in Lucani.
‘His untimely departure represents a tremendous loss for the entire football community.
‘The Football Association of Serbia expresses its deepest condolences to the Zizovic family, the members of FK Radnicki 1923, as well as all friends and admirers of his character and work.
‘Rest in peace, Mladen. Your love for football and the legacy you left behind will remain with us forever.’
Serbian giants Partizan Belgrade added: ‘With sadness, we received the news that Radnicki’s coach from Kragujevac, Mladen Zizovic, has suddenly passed away.
‘Our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and club.’
