The Bosnian football world is in mourning after the tragic death of Amir Jihan, who collapsed and died on the pitch. Jihan was participating in a match against FK Vites as a representative of second-division team NK Bajer Belagich when he suddenly fell to the ground. Medical staff rushed onto the pitch to help him, but unfortunately resuscitation attempts were in vain.
The match was immediately called off as players, staff, and supporters watched in horror. In an even more heartbreaking twist, Jihan is the son of Bayer head coach Enes Jihan. FK Vitesse released a short statement regarding the tragedy, saying: “The match will not continue. Our thoughts and prayers are with the visiting players, their families and the NK Bayer club.”
Bayer also released a shocking statement of their own, informing their supporters of the tragic news. “Dear fans, it is with great regret that I have to inform you of this today during a match of our club,” he wrote.
“Amir Jihan was involved in a serious accident, but unfortunately he survived. Amir is the son of our coach Enes Jihan and we are all in shock. We ask for your understanding and support for our family.”
The club also paid a heartfelt tribute to Jihan the following day, with a translation from their social media pages saying: “Amir Jihan, a man who spent his whole life in sport and for whom football was more than a sport, sadly left us all too soon yesterday.
“Amir lost his life during the match and it was fate that his father Enes Čihan would lead him from the bench in the final match. Amir worked in Croatia and returned at the weekend to be able to play for NK Bayer 99.”
“In a short period of time, he will become popular among his teammates and remain in the hearts of the players, fans and club management. Today, the management of NK Bayer 99 will visit the Jihan family and spend time with them during these difficult days.
“The players, management and fans are still in shock and can’t believe what happened in what was supposed to be one more game in the series and will be remembered by us all as the worst incident in the club’s history.
“The funeral will be held tomorrow after afternoon prayers and transportation will be arranged for everyone who wants to go to D. Vakf. We pray to Allah to grant Amir paradise and patience for his family.”
