Mladen Žižović died after collapsing on the touchline
Football has been struck by deep tragedy following the sudden death of Mladen Žižović, who collapsed during a Serbian Super League match between Mladost and Radnički 1923 on Monday, November 3, 2025, and passed away shortly after.
The 44-year-old coach was leading his team in a league fixture when he suddenly fell beside the bench midway through the first half.
Panic swept through the technical area as players and staff from both teams signaled frantically for help.
Medics rushed across the field to attend to him, performing emergency treatment as players huddled in shock.
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After several tense minutes, Žižović was taken away in an ambulance to a nearby hospital. The game continued briefly, but within twenty minutes, devastating news filtered through: he had died en route to the hospital, reportedly from a heart attack.
Žižović’s club later confirmed his passing in a heartbreaking statement:
“With the deepest sorrow, we inform the public, fans, and sports friends that our head coach, Mladen Žižović, passed away during last night’s match. Our club has lost not only a great specialist but, above all, a good person, a friend, and a sports worker who, with his knowledge, energy, and nobility, left a deep mark in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest in peace, Mladen.”
Born in 1980, Žižović had lived most of his life in football, first as a player and then as a coach.
He represented several clubs during his career and later managed multiple sides, earning respect for his calm leadership and deep understanding of the game. He had only been in his current coaching role for eleven days before tragedy struck.
The news of his death has shaken the football world. Messages of condolence have poured in from former teammates, players, and fans, all remembering him as a kind man who carried himself with quiet dignity.
FKA/JE
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