The Serbian football community has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of Mladen Žižović, head coach of FK Radnički 1923, who passed away after reportedly suffering a heart attack during his team’s Serbian Super League match against Mladost Lučani.
According to an official statement from the Serbian Football Federation, the 44-year-old Bosnian coach collapsed unexpectedly in the technical area in the 22nd minute of the game.
Medical staff rushed to his aid and transported him to the hospital, but despite intensive emergency treatment, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The tragic incident left players, officials, and fans in deep shock, prompting officials to suspend the match. FK Radnički 1923 described Žižović as “a true professional, a leader, and a role model both on and off the field.”
In a condolence message, the Serbian Football Federation said his death was “a profound loss for Serbian and regional football,” extending sympathy to his family, colleagues, and the wider football fraternity.
Born on December 27, 1980, in Rogatica, Žižović enjoyed a respected career as a midfielder before turning to coaching. He represented clubs including Radnik Bijeljina, Rudar Ugljevik, Zrinjski Mostar, KF Tirana, and Borac Banja Luka before retiring in 2016.
He began his coaching career in 2017 and went on to manage Radnik Bijeljina, Zrinjski Mostar, Sloboda Tuzla, Borac Banja Luka, Al-Kholood (Saudi Arabia), and Shkupi (North Macedonia), earning widespread respect for his tactical discipline and leadership.
