The former Arsenal and Liverpool goalkeeper has died at the age of 48 after his car was involved in a collision with a train in Salzburg
Tributes have poured in following the death of former Arsenal and Liverpool goalkeeper Alex Manninger. The Austrian FA have confirmed his death, with the 48-year-old understood to have died following a car crash.
His car was involved in a collision with a train in his home town of Salzburg. The Austrian FA wrote on social media: “The news of Alex Manninger’s death is deeply shocking. With him, football loses a special person.
“In this difficult time, our sincere condolences go to his family, his friends, and all those who were close to him. Much strength for the time ahead.”
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Manninger represented several clubs, before announcing his retirement from football in 2017. He spent the final year of his career with Liverpool, but didn’t make an appearance for the club.
The goalkeeper had previously played for Arsenal between 1997 and 2001. During that time, he made 64 appearances for the club in all competitions.
The Gunners sent a message on their official X account, with the club writing: “Everyone at Arsenal is shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic passing of former goalkeeper, Alex Manninger.
“All our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this incredibly sad time.
“Rest in peace, Alex”
Liverpool paid tribute to their former player, writing: “Liverpool FC is deeply saddened by the passing of former goalkeeper Alex Manninger at the age of 48.
“The Austrian arrived at Anfield in July 2016 to spend the final season of his lengthy playing career as a Red.
“Brought in as an experienced back-up goalkeeper, he featured in two friendly fixtures and was named in the matchday squad on four occasions during that campaign.
“Manninger represented a host of clubs in Europe across two decades – including hometown side Red Bull Salzburg, Arsenal, Fiorentina, Juventus and FC Augsburg.
“He earned 33 senior caps for Austria, the first of which came in August 1999.The thoughts of everyone at LFC are with Alex’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
One of his former clubs, RB Salzburg, have paid tribute, writing on X: “We mourn our former goalkeeper Alexander Manninger, who tragically lost his life in a traffic accident. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in peace, Alexander.”
SV Austria Salzburg also wrote: “SV Austria Salzburg mourns Alexander Manninger.
“With great dismay, we have learned of the tragic accident in Nußdorf in which Alexander Manninger lost his life.”
Austrian Football Association Sporting Director Peter Schottle paid a heartfelt tribute to the former Austria international. “Alexander Manninger was an outstanding ambassador for Austrian football, both on and off the pitch,” he said.
“His international career set standards and inspired and influenced many young goalkeepers. His professionalism, composure, and reliability made him an important part of his teams and the national team.
“His achievements deserve the highest respect and will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Manchester United were among the clubs to pay tribute. “Sending heartfelt condolences to Alex’s family and everyone affected by this tragic news – our thoughts are with you,” they wrote in reply to Arsenal’s message.
Tottenham also said: “Our love and condolences are with Alex’s family, friends and all those affected during this incredibly difficult time.”
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