Sinisa Mihajlovic, the Serbian football figure who left an indelible mark as a player and a coach across Europe, died at 53. His passing closes a chapter in modern football that blended fiery leadership with tactical insight, a style that inspired teams from Belgrade to Milan and beyond.
In 2019 Mihajlovic revealed he was battling leukemia, a struggle he publicly faced with the same candor that defined his on‑field approach. He underwent three cycles of chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, enduring grueling treatments while remaining engaged with football in spirit if not in full health. The fight intensified in March 2022 when he disclosed the disease had returned and that he would pursue a new course of treatment, underscoring his continued commitment to life and sport despite serious health challenges.
Most of Mihajlovic’s coaching career unfolded in the Italian football landscape, where his reputation grew through periods with several top clubs. His last appointment was with Bologna, from which he parted in September 2022 after the club decided to part ways. Before that, he guided storied teams such as Torino, Milan, Fiorentina, Sampdoria, and Catania, and he also led Sporting in Portugal. Between 2012 and 2013 he served as the head coach of the Serbian national team, steering a generation of players during a crucial phase of national football development.
As a player, Mihajlovic represented some of the most historic clubs in the Balkans and Italy. He wore the shirt of Red Star Belgrade, Roma, Sampdoria, Lazio, and Inter, leaving a lasting impression with his blend of technical skill, leadership, and set‑piece mastery. His early years also saw him called up to the Yugoslav national team, where his talent and tenacity were on full display, shaping a career that would later transition into a respected coaching philosophy celebrated by players and peers alike.
Beyond the pitch, the football world remembers Mihajlovic for his candid personality and his ability to articulate strategic ideas in a way that resonated with fans and teammates. His legacy rests not only on the trophies and matches won but also on the resilience and dignity with which he faced illness, sharing his journey openly with the public and illustrating a sense of humanity that transcended sport.
In other sports news from North America, the community mourns the loss of American tennis coach Nick Bollettieri, who died on December 4 at the age of 91. Bollettieri’s influence on the sport, including his renowned academy and his role in developing generations of champions, is remembered as a transformative force in coaching and player development.