Serbian football legend Sinisa Mihajlovic passed away in a hospital surrounded by family after a long battle with leukemia. He was 53 years old, and his struggle with the disease, which had persisted since 2019, left many fans and former teammates in mourning.
In a statement shared by his family, Mihajlovic was described as an exemplary husband, father, son, brother, and friend. The message, carried to the public by the Italian agency ANSA, conveyed warmth and gratitude for the care shown by doctors and nurses who supported him through the years. The family expressed profound affection and noted that Mihajlovic would live on in the memories and love he gave to those around him.
During his illness, Mihajlovic faced relapses and treatments that interrupted his coaching duties. Yet, he remained a figure of resilience, often returning to the sidelines to lead teams with his characteristic passion and strategic mind. His journey through modern medicine and sport became a testament to endurance and spirit, inspiring many who face serious health challenges.
Mihajlovic left an early mark on the football world, first emerging as a player for Red Star Belgrade and later achieving international fame with a string of elite clubs. He began his professional career in his homeland and quickly earned a reputation for leadership, technical skill, and a fierce competitive edge. His success with Red Star culminated in lifting the European Cup in 1991, a historic achievement that launched him onto the world stage.
From there, Mihajlovic’s career carried him to Italy, where he made lasting impressions with Roma, Sampdoria, Lazio, Inter, and other storied clubs. His time in Serie A featured memorable performances and a leadership presence that extended beyond his playing days. He transitioned into management in Bologna in 2019 after a long and varied coaching career that included stints with Fiorentina, Sampdoria, Milan, Torino, and national team duties for Serbia. In every role, he was known for his disciplined approach and his ability to motivate players through clear, honest communication.
Born to a Croatian mother and a Serbian father, Mihajlovic began his football journey in the Balkans and quickly attracted attention for his blend of skill and tenacity. He played for Vojvodina, then moved to Belgrade’s Red Star, where he helped secure one of European football’s most coveted prizes. His career then brought him to Italy, where he became a central figure for several top clubs and a respected strategist behind the bench.
As a coach, Mihajlovic earned a reputation for his direct style, unwavering focus, and ability to extract maximum effort from his squads. He guided teams through demanding leagues and earned recognition for his tactical fluency and managerial persistence. His influence extended beyond results, shaping the culture of the teams he led and leaving a lasting impression on players who describe him as a steadfast mentor.
The football community responded with condolences and admiration after the news of his passing spread. The Italian Prime Minister, a prominent political figure, issued a message praising Mihajlovic for the bravery he showed on and off the field. The statement highlighted his strength, leadership, and the inspiration he provided to many facing illness. Serie A also expressed its sorrow, honoring Mihajlovic as a symbol of class, resilience, and humanity within the sport. These tributes underscored the wide respect he earned across Italian football and beyond, recognizing his enduring legacy as both a player and a coach with a profound impact on the game’s history.