Ex-Arsenal Goalkeeper Alex Manninger Passes Away After Winning Two Titles

Tragedy has struck as former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has lost his life in a road accident, as confirmed by his first club, Red Bull Salzburg. Manninger, 48, played a pivotal role in Arsenal's double-winning 1997/98 season, stepping in for the injured David Seaman to make seven crucial Premier League appearances and saving a decisive penalty in the FA Cup semi-final shootout against West Ham. During his five-year stint with the Gunners from 1997 to 2002, Manninger made a total of 64 appearances. He then went on to have spells in Serie A with clubs like Fiorentina, Siena, and Juventus, in the Austrian Bundesliga with Red Bull Salzburg, and in the German Bundesliga with Augsburg. Manninger concluded his career at Liverpool, although he did not make any appearances for the club. In a statement, Arsenal expressed their shock and deep sadness at the tragic passing of their former goalkeeper, extending their thoughts to Manninger's family and loved ones during this difficult time. Manninger also had a distinguished international career, earning 33 caps for Austria and being part of the squad for the 2008 European Championship co-hosted by Austria and Switzerland. Red Bull Salzburg, the club where Manninger began his career, posted a heartfelt tribute 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 are with his family and friends. Rest in peace, Alexander."