Former Arsenal Goalkeeper Alex Manninger Dies in Train Collision

Alexander Manninger, a former Arsenal goalkeeper, has passed away after a train collided with his car. The Austrian Football Association described him as an outstanding ambassador for Austrian football, praising his professionalism, composure, and reliability.

According to Salzburg police, first responders used a defibrillator on Manninger after he was freed from the vehicle, but unfortunately, they could not resuscitate him. The train driver was unharmed in the incident.

Manninger had a distinguished career, playing for 14 teams across Europe, including Sienna, Juventus, Udinese, and Augsburg. He also signed a short-term deal with Liverpool in 2016, although he did not play for the team.

During his time at Arsenal, Manninger played a crucial role, deputising for the injured David Seaman late in the 1997-98 season. He helped the team beat West Ham on penalties in the FA Cup sixth round and impressed in a win against Manchester United at Old Trafford. Manninger was named Premier League player of the month for March 1998 and was awarded a league winner's medal by Arsenal despite not having played the required number of games.

Reactions from the Football Community

Arsenal expressed their shock and sadness at the news, stating that their thoughts are with Manninger's family and loved ones. Red Bull Salzburg and Liverpool also paid their respects, with Juventus describing Manninger as a man of rare values, including humility, dedication, and professionalism.

Juventus said, "Today is a terribly sad day... He has left us not only as a great athlete, but as a man of rare values: humility, dedication, and an extraordinary professional seriousness." The team expressed its condolences to Manninger's family and stood with them in their moment of grief.