Tragedy has struck the football world with the news of Alex Manninger's untimely death in a road accident, as confirmed by his former club, Red Bull Salzburg. The 48-year-old Austrian goalkeeper played a pivotal role in Arsenal's double-winning season of 1997/98, filling in for the injured David Seaman and making seven crucial appearances in the Premier League.
His heroics also included saving a penalty in the FA Cup semi-final shootout against West Ham. During his time with the Gunners from 1997 to 2002, Manninger made a total of 64 appearances. He then went on to have stints in Serie A with clubs like Fiorentina, Siena, and Juventus, as well as playing in the Austrian Bundesliga with Red Bull Salzburg and the German Bundesliga with Augsburg. Manninger concluded his career at Liverpool, although he did not make any appearances for the club.
Arsenal has expressed its deep sorrow over Manninger's passing, stating, "The entire Arsenal family is shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic news of former goalkeeper Alex Manninger's passing. Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time." On the international stage, Manninger earned 33 caps for Austria 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, has paid tribute to their former goalkeeper, saying, "We are mourning the loss of our former goalkeeper Alexander Manninger, who tragically lost his life in a traffic accident. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.
May he rest in peace."