Serbian football mourns the sudden death of manager Mladen Zizovic
The world of football is in mourning after Serbian Super League manager Mladen Zizovic died suddenly at the age of 44 following a heart attack during a match on Sunday evening, reports BritPanorama.
The Radnicki 1923 head coach collapsed on the touchline just 22 minutes into his side’s away fixture against Mladost Lucani, prompting immediate concern from players, officials, and supporters.
Medical staff rushed to his aid as the match was halted and resumed only after Zizovic was taken to a nearby hospital. However, despite desperate attempts to save his life, doctors were unable to revive him.
The devastating news reached the Radnicki players later in the evening, just minutes after the game had restarted. Visibly distraught, several players broke down on the pitch as the referee brought the match to an emotional end. Footage circulating on social media the following day showed heart-rending scenes of teammates embracing and weeping as they learned their manager had passed away.
Zizovic had only recently taken charge of the Kragujevac-based side, having been appointed on October 23. Sunday’s fixture was his third game in the dugout. His sudden death has cast a pall over Serbian football, with tributes pouring in from across the Balkans and beyond.
In a statement released on Monday, the Football Association of Serbia expressed its profound sorrow, writing: “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.”
Partizan Belgrade, one of Serbia’s most storied clubs, added their own message of condolence, stating, “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.”
Born in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Zizovic enjoyed a respected playing career before turning to management. A technically gifted midfielder, he represented several clubs in Bosnia and Albania, earning two caps for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team. He retired as a player in 2016, remembered as a calm leader on and off the pitch.
Friends and colleagues have described him as a thoughtful tactician with a deep understanding of the game and a passion for developing young players. He leaves behind three children, and his death has been described by those close to him as a tragedy that has shaken the sporting community across the region. The Serbian league is expected to hold a minute’s silence in Zizovic’s honour next weekend.
In moments like this, the bond between a coach and his players is starkly revealed; it serves as a reminder of the profound impact that leadership can have, transcending mere games and aspiring for something more enduring.
