A football club has been left in mourning after their football manager, 44, collapsed on the touchline and tragically passed away – leaving players in tears on the pitch
20:59, 03 Nov 2025
Mladen Zizovic, 44, has died(Image: UEFA via Getty Images)
A football manager has died after he collapsed mid-match.
Mladen Zizovic, 44, was the manager of Serbian top-tier outfit Radnički 1923 – and he led his team out for their clash with Mladost on Sunday evening. However, 22 minutes into the match, he collapsed.
Medics were quick to attend to Zizovic, and he was rushed to a local hospital. However, he tragically lost his life with players and coaches from both teams breaking down in tears as the news was confirmed.
The game was subsequently abandoned, and a statement from the Serbian FA said: “The Football Association of Serbia has received with deep sorrow and disbelief the news of the sudden death of FK Radnički 1923 coach Mladen Žižović.
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“Who passed away at the age of 44 during the Mozzart Bet Super League of Serbia match between Mladost and Radnički 1923 in Lučani.
Mladen Zizovic collapsed mid-match(Image: UEFA via Getty Images)
“His untimely departure represents a tremendous loss for the entire football community.
“The Football Association of Serbia expresses its deepest condolences to the Žižović family, the members of FK Radnički 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.”
Mladen Zizovic managed in the Europa Conference League last season(Image: Getty Images)
Tributes have been paid from other Serbian teams, with Partizan Belgrade sending their well-wishes: “With sadness, we received the news that Radnički’s coach from Kragujevac, Mladen Žižović, has suddenly passed away.
“Our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and club.”
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And Red Star Belgrade said: “FK Crvena Zvezda expresses its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mladen Žižović, as well as to the members of FK Radnički 1923. Rest in peace, Mladen.”
Zizovic had only take over at FK Radnicki 1923 in the summer – having led Bosnian side FK Borac Banja Luka in the Europa Conference League last season.
