Ex-Arsenal Goalkeeper Alex Manninger Passes Away After Fatal Road Accident

Tragedy has struck the football world as former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has lost his life in a road accident, as confirmed by his first club, Red Bull Salzburg. Manninger, who was 48 years old, played a crucial role in Arsenal's double-winning season of 1997/98, filling in for the injured David Seaman and making seven appearances in the Premier League. He also memorably saved a penalty in the FA Cup semi-final shootout victory over West Ham. During his time with the Gunners from 1997 to 2002, Manninger made a total of 64 appearances. His career then took him to various clubs, including Fiorentina, Siena, and Juventus in Serie A, Red Bull Salzburg in the Austrian Bundesliga, and FA Augsburg in the German Bundesliga. Although he ended his career at Liverpool, he did not make any appearances for the club. Arsenal has released a statement expressing their shock and sadness at the news, saying: "The entire Arsenal family is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our former goalkeeper, Alex Manninger. Our thoughts and condolences are with his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time." Manninger earned 33 caps for Austria and was part of the national team that competed in the 2008 European Championships, co-hosted by Austria and Switzerland. Red Bull Salzburg, where Manninger began his career, has paid tribute to him on social media, stating: "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. May he rest in peace."