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 played a pivotal role in Arsenal's 1997/98 double-winning season, stepping in for the injured David Seaman to make seven crucial appearances in the Premier League. One of his most notable contributions was saving a penalty in the FA Cup semi-final shootout victory over West Ham.
Throughout his career with the Gunners, spanning from 1997 to 2002, Manninger made 64 appearances. He then went on to have spells in Serie A with clubs like Fiorentina, Siena, and Juventus, the Austrian Bundesliga with Red Bull Salzburg, and the German Bundesliga with Augsburg. Manninger concluded his career at Liverpool, although he did not make an appearance for the club. Arsenal has expressed their shock and deep sadness over the tragic passing of Manninger, offering their thoughts to his 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 Euros co-hosted by Austria and Switzerland. Red Bull Salzburg, the club where Manninger began his journey, has paid tribute to their former goalkeeper, 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. Rest in peace, Alexander.'