Chelsea legend Branislav Ivanovic is mourning the death of his cousin after he suffered a heart attack mid-game.
Former Serbia international Dejan Milovanovic died aged 41 on Tuesday after the episode during a Red Star Belgrade legends’ match.
Milovanovic collapsed while preparing to take a corner during a match. He was revived but unfortunately suffered another heart attack, which proved to be fatal, on his way to the hospital.
Milovanovic, who played twice for Serbia, captained his hometown club Red Star and won seven trophies, including three league titles.
Throughout his career, he achieved success by winning the Ligue 2 title with Lens in the 2008-09 season. He also played for Panionios in Greece and Vozdovac in Serbia, finally retiring after the 2013-14 season.
Branislav Ivanovic, left, is mourning the death of his cousin Dejan Milovanovic, right
Ivanovic (left) celebrated with Milovanovic (centre) after the latter scored in the U21s Euros in 2007 (Dusan Tadic pictured on the right)
He came from a footballing family, having been the cousin of Ivanovic and the son of former Red Star midfielder Dorde Milovanovic.
The Veterans League has postponed their upcoming games and announced in a statement: ‘Dear club representatives, just moments ago, during a veterans’ match, Dejan Milovanovic of FK Zvezdara passed away.’
‘For this reason, the next round, which was supposed to be played on September 18, will be postponed.’
Red Star paid tribute to him with words from Bosko Durovski, the president of the club’s Veterans’ Section, who said: ‘Dejan was more than just a footballer. He grew up at our club, advancing through all the youth ranks and starting his professional journey wearing the red-and-white jersey.’
‘His skill, determination, and charisma made a lasting impact on his teammates and fans. His commitment to Red Star and passion for football were evident to anyone who saw him play or shared a locker room with him.’
‘Aside from his athletic abilities, he was known for being a wonderful person—cheerful, smiling, and ready to help. The friendships he forged were truly heartfelt and meaningful, and his character left a significant impact on everyone he met.’
‘After the end of his playing career, Dejan continued to stay close to his club and enjoyed spending time with Red Star veterans, eagerly participating in their final appearances and preserving the spirit of Red Star that has always defined our club.
‘The untimely departure of our Deki has left an immense void in our Red Star family. In these difficult moments, on behalf of all the veterans of FK Crvena zvezda, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those who loved him.
Milovanovic (foreground) won seven trophies with Red Star Belgrade and got promoted to Ligu 1 with Lens (pictured with them in 2010)
‘Dejan, your name and the memories of you will live forever in the club and among those of us who had the honor of knowing you. Thank you for everything you gave to Red Star and for being a part of it. Rest in peace, and we will carry you in our hearts.’
In a separate tribute, Red Star themselves penned: ‘Dejan loved football and Red Star the most. It will remain recorded that it was on the pitch that the heart of a great Red Star fan, fighter, and football master stopped beating.’
Meanwhile, Lens wrote on X: ‘Le Racing has learned with deep emotion of the sudden passing of Dejan Milovanović, which occurred this Tuesday at the age of 41. Sang et Or between 2008 and 2010, the Serbian midfielder wore the Lensois jersey 47 times. To his family and loved ones, the club extends its most sincere condolences.’
Ivanovic, who played for Chelsea between 2008 and 2017, winning 10 trophies including three Premier Leagues and a Champions League before joining West Brom, is yet to publicly comment.
