Former Arsenal Goalkeeper Alex Manninger Passes Away After Fatal Road Accident

Ex-Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has tragically lost his life in a road accident, as confirmed by his former club Red Bull Salzburg. The 48-year-old played a crucial role in Arsenal's double-winning season in 1997/98, filling in for David Seaman and making seven Premier League appearances. He also saved a penalty in the FA Cup semi-final shootout against West Ham. Manninger went on to make 64 appearances for the Gunners between 1997 and 2002, before moving on to play for several 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 expressed their shock and sadness at the news, stating: "The entire Arsenal community is devastated by the tragic passing of our former goalkeeper, Alex Manninger. Our deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time." Manninger earned 33 caps for Austria and was part of the squad for the 2008 Euros. Red Bull Salzburg, 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 are with his family and friends. Rest in peace, Alexander."