Tragedy has struck the football community with the news of Alex Manninger's untimely death in a road accident, as announced by his former club Red Bull Salzburg. Manninger, who was 48, played a pivotal role in Arsenal's historic double win in the 1997/98 season, stepping in for the injured David Seaman and making seven crucial appearances in the Premier League.
One of his most memorable moments was saving a penalty in the FA Cup semi-final shootout against West Ham. During his time with the Gunners from 1997 to 2002, Manninger made a total of 64 appearances.
His career also took him to Serie A, where he played for clubs like Fiorentina, Siena, and Juventus, as well as stints in the Austrian Bundesliga with Red Bull Salzburg and the German Bundesliga with Augsburg. Although he ended his career at Liverpool, Manninger did not make any appearances for the club. Arsenal expressed their deep sadness and shock at the news, stating, "The entire Arsenal family is devastated by the tragic loss of our former goalkeeper, Alex Manninger.
Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time." Manninger also had a distinguished international career, earning 33 caps for Austria and being part of the squad for the 2008 European Championships co-hosted by Austria and Switzerland. Red Bull Salzburg, the club where Manninger began his career, paid tribute to him on social media, saying, "We are mourning the loss of our former goalkeeper, Alexander Manninger, who tragically passed away in a traffic accident.
Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends. May he rest in peace."