Athletes crying as head coach passes away amid match
The manager had just assumed leadership of FK Radnicki 1923 just weeks ago
Players fell to the ground sobbing as they were informed of their manager's death in the middle of a match in Serbia's top flight
Team manager the former international collapsed and underwent emergency care pitchside before being rushed to a healthcare center during his club's fixture at the away venue on Monday
The Serbian SuperLiga match continued but was halted shortly before half-time when word of the coach's passing arrived at the stadium
Recordings of the game showed players and officials from each team in grief at the news
Previously a Bosnian international player, 44, was just named head coach of the football club on 23 October
"The organization has lost not only a great professional but above all a good man, a friend, and a competitor who, with his expertise, enthusiasm and integrity has created lasting memories on the hearts of all who had the privilege of meeting him"
The country's soccer authority said its "soccer family has suffered the loss of another genuine soccer expert" with his death
"During his lengthy professional experience, the coach was part of various organizations in the Premier League of the country, particularly HSK Zrinjski Mostar, FK Radnik Bijeljina and a third organization, and he additionally represented the colors of the national squad"
"After ending his athletic journey, he dedicated himself to management, leading organizations in Bosnia and Herzegovina and neighboring nations"
"The unexpected demise constitutes a great loss for the national sports community"
"The dedication for soccer and the impact you created will be remembered by all forever"
Major organizations also paid tribute, including Red Star Belgrade, who expressed their "most sincere sympathies"
