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

Tragedy has struck 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 crucial role in Arsenal's 1997/98 double-winning campaign, filling in for the injured David Seaman and making seven Premier League appearances, including a notable penalty save in the FA Cup semi-final shootout against West Ham. During his time with the Gunners from 1997 to 2002, he made a total of 64 appearances. His subsequent career took him to Serie A, where he played for Fiorentina, Siena, and Juventus, as well as stints in the Austrian Bundesliga with Red Bull Salzburg and the German Bundesliga with Augsburg. Although he ended his career at Liverpool, he did not make any appearances for the club. Arsenal has expressed their shock and sadness, stating, "The entire Arsenal community is devastated by the tragic news of Alex Manninger's passing. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time." Manninger also earned 33 caps for Austria and was part of the national team that participated in the 2008 Euros co-hosted by Austria and Switzerland. Red Bull Salzburg, the club where Manninger began his career, has paid tribute to him, 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."