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

Tragedy has struck the football world as former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has lost his life in a tragic 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 campaign of 1997/98, filling in for the injured David Seaman and making seven appearances in the Premier League. He also made a pivotal contribution in the FA Cup semi-final, saving a penalty in the shootout win 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 play for several clubs, including Fiorentina, Siena, and Juventus in Serie A, Red Bull Salzburg in the Austrian Bundesliga, and Augsburg in the German Bundesliga. Manninger eventually ended his career at Liverpool, although he did not make any appearances for the club. Arsenal released a statement expressing their shock and sadness at the news, saying: "The entire Arsenal family is deeply saddened by the tragic loss 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 the Austrian national team and was part of the squad that participated in the 2008 European Championship, co-hosted by Austria and Switzerland. 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. May he rest in peace."