Footballers in tears as coach dies during game

The manager had just assumed leadership of his team last month

Athletes collapsed on the field sobbing as they were informed of their head coach's demise during a game in the Serbian SuperLiga

FK Radnicki 1923 coach the 44-year-old suffered a collapse and received treatment pitchside before being rushed to a healthcare center during his team's match at their opponents' ground on the start of the week

The Serbian SuperLiga match proceeded but was called off moments before the break when news of the manager's demise reached the venue

Recordings of the game showed athletes and staff from both sides in grief at the development

The former BH national team member, mid-forties, was only appointed leader of his team on October 23rd

"The team has lost not only a excellent coach but primarily a decent person, a friend, and a sportsman who, with his knowledge, vitality and character has made a significant impact on the emotions of all who knew him"

The national football governing body said its "football community has been deprived of another true football professional" with his demise

"During his extensive athletic journey, the manager was part of numerous clubs in the first tier of the nation, most notably HSK Zrinjski Mostar, Radnik Bijeljina and a third organization, and he additionally represented the colors of the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team"

"After ending his athletic journey, he dedicated himself to coaching, leading clubs in the region and neighboring nations"

"His untimely passing constitutes a significant blow for the national sports community"

"The dedication for soccer and the legacy you created will remain with us for all time"

Leading clubs also paid tribute, including the famous club, who expressed their "deepest condolences"

Kathleen Graves
Kathleen Graves

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