HAUNTING footage has emerged of Mladen Zizovic instructing his players just minutes before suffering a fatal heart attack during a match in Serbia.
The former Bosnian international footballer was in charge of Serbian top flight side Radnicki 1923.
His team were in action against Mladost on Sunday evening when the tragic incident occurred.
Television footage showed Zizovic shouting instructions to his players during the fourth minute of the match, with his side 1-0 up.
The 44-year-old went on to collapse on the sideline in the 22nd minute, requiring urgent medical attention.
As Zizovic was taken away in an ambulance, the match was allowed to resume.
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But around 20 minutes later, just shy of half-time, the match was abandoned as players were informed that Zizovic had died on the way to hospital.
Distressing scenes followed, with several heartbroken players falling to the turf in disbelief.
Others also took a knee as a mark of respect.
Radnicki went on to release a devastating statement, which read: “A man who left a deep mark wherever he worked with his knowledge, calmness and nobility.
“Although he spent a short time in Kragujevac, he managed to gain the respect of everyone at the club, among players, associates and fans, with his energy, professionalism and human qualities.
“FK Radnicki 1923 expresses its deepest condolences to the family, friends and everyone who knew Mladen.
“His dedication to football, passion for the game, and human warmth will forever remain etched in the memories of all who had the honour of knowing him.
“Rest in peace, Mladen.”
Zizovic enjoyed a successful playing career between 1997 and 2016, earning two caps for his country.
He then took up coaching, with Radnicki his seventh managerial role.
Sunday’s match had been just his third game in charge, with the top flight side having appointed him on October 23.
‘DEEP SORROW’
A Serbian FA statement said: “The Football Association of Serbia has received with deep sorrow and disbelief the news of the sudden death of FK Radnicki 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.
“Rest in peace, Mladen. Your love for football and the legacy you left behind will remain with us forever.”
Meanwhile, a player has revealed that Zizovic complained about his fish meal hours before the tragedy.
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Mehmed Cosic told Faktor: “I didn’t fall asleep until almost 3:30am. I have no words, we are stunned.
“They say he complained about the fish, said he wouldn’t eat it anymore. That’s what he was talking about. There were no problems during the warm-up, the game started, everything was okay.”
