Football clubs Sutjeska and Budućnost have bid farewell to the legendary football player, Andrija Delibasic.

Delibasic passed away today at the age of 44 after a prolonged struggle with a severe illness.

At just 14 years old, Delibasic transferred from Sutjeska to Partizan and went on to play for clubs like Benfica, Braga, AEK, Beira Mar, Real Sociedad, Hercules, Rayo Vallecano, and Račaburi. Eventually, he returned to his hometown, joining Sutjeska, where he concluded his distinguished career.

“Heaven has gained another champion. Rest in peace, Andrija,” stated Sutjeska.

After hanging up his boots, Delibasic served on the coaching staff of Partizan and Budućnost before becoming the head coach of Mornar from Bar. He also took on the role of sports director at Budućnost.

“Comrade. Brother. Friend. Man. And no, such a man never leaves, he will stay with us forever. We will celebrate your name, and you protect us! …from heaven I will cheer you on to the titles,” remarked Budućnost.

FK Mornar also expressed their condolences to Delibasic, under whose leadership he served from 2021 to 2023.

“Andrija joined FK Mornar as an accomplished expert, but our locker room quickly embraced him as one of ‘their own.’ His calm demeanor, straightforwardness, and genuine desire to connect with each player made him truly exceptional,” they stated.

Delibasic scored six goals in 21 matches for the Montenegrin national team. He notably netted a goal in the team’s first competitive win against Georgia (2:1) during the 2009 World Cup qualifiers, and his last-minute equalizer (2:2) against England on October 7, 2011, in the Euro qualifiers will forever be remembered.

He also represented the youth national team of Serbia and Montenegro, helping them secure a silver medal at the 2004 European Championship in Germany.

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