Tragedy has struck the football world with the news of Alex Manninger's untimely death in a road accident, as confirmed by his first club, Red Bull Salzburg. The 48-year-old Austrian goalkeeper played a pivotal role in Arsenal's double-winning season of 1997/98, deputizing for David Seaman and making seven crucial appearances in the Premier League, including a memorable penalty save in the FA Cup semi-final shootout against West Ham. Manninger accumulated 64 appearances for the Gunners between 1997 and 2002 before embarking on a journey that saw him play for esteemed clubs such as Fiorentina, Siena, and Juventus in Serie A, Red Bull Salzburg in the Austrian Bundesliga, and FA Augsburg in the German Bundesliga, concluding his career at Liverpool without making an appearance.
Arsenal expressed their deep sorrow, stating, "The entire Arsenal family is shocked and profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of our former goalkeeper, Alex Manninger. Our heartfelt condolences are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time." Manninger also earned 33 caps for Austria and was a part of the squad for the 2008 European Championship co-hosted by Austria and Switzerland.
Red Bull Salzburg, where Manninger began his career, paid tribute with a statement that read, "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."