Alex Manninger: Ex-Arsenal goalkeeper dies after car hit by train

Alex Manninger: Ex-Arsenal goalkeeper dies after car hit by train

Alexander Manninger was recognized as an exceptional representative of Austrian football, both during his playing career and beyond, according to Peter Schottel, the sporting director of the Austrian Football Association. Schottel praised Manninger’s professionalism, calmness, and dependability, describing these qualities as vital to both his club teams and the Austrian national squad. He noted that Manninger’s accomplishments deserve deep respect and will be remembered for a long time.

Tragically, Manninger lost his life in an accident in Salzburg. Police reported that first responders attempted to revive him using a defibrillator after he was rescued from his vehicle, which had been struck and dragged by a train. Unfortunately, the efforts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful. Authorities also mentioned that the train driver emerged from the incident without injury.

Manninger’s football journey began with his hometown club, Red Bull Salzburg, before he went on to play for 14 different teams across Europe. His clubs included notable names such as Siena, Juventus, Udinese, and Augsburg. At the age of 39, he signed a short-term contract with Liverpool in 2016, though he did not make any appearances for the team. During his tenure at Arsenal, Manninger mostly served as backup to David Seaman but stepped in when Seaman was injured late in the 1997-98 season. His performances included helping Arsenal win a penalty shootout against West Ham in the FA Cup and delivering an impressive display in a significant victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford. For these efforts, he was honored as the Premier League’s player of the month in March 1998.

Despite not playing the minimum number of league matches typically required, Arsenal awarded Manninger a winner’s medal for the 1997-98 season. The club expressed shock and profound sorrow over his passing, extending condolences to his family and friends. Other former clubs also shared their grief: Red Bull Salzburg said they mourned their former goalkeeper, Liverpool conveyed they were deeply saddened by the news, and Juventus reflected on Manninger’s legacy as both an outstanding athlete and a person of exceptional humility, dedication, and professionalism, offering their sympathies during this difficult time

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