Former Arsenal goalkeeper who won the Premier League suddenly dies after a horrific car accident

European football is in mourning as former Arsenal and Juventus goalkeeper Alex Manninger died at 48 after a severe traffic accident in Austria.

Former Arsenal goalkeeper dies in a traffic accident

According to Daily Mail and local media, the incident occurred on Thursday in Salzburg state – where Manninger was born. The former goalkeeper's car was struck by a train while crossing a public level crossing near the Nussdorf am Haunsberg area. The powerful collision dragged the car several meters. Rescue forces quickly arrived at the scene, removed Manninger from the vehicle, and performed first aid. However, despite the efforts of medical personnel, he could not survive.

Notably, at the time of the accident, Manninger was believed to be alone in the car. The train driver and all passengers were safe. Austrian police have now launched an investigation to clarify the cause of this tragic accident.

Immediately after the information was confirmed, Austria Salzburg – the club where Manninger grew up – expressed deep condolences. In the announcement, the club emphasized that he was not only a part of the club's history but also a person who left a significant mark both on and off the pitch, and extended sympathy to the family and loved ones of the unfortunate former goalkeeper.

Alex Manninger was one of the prominent goalkeepers in Austrian football and paved the way for Austrian players in the Premier League. Joining Arsenal in 1997, he was part of the "Gunners" squad that won the Premier League and FA Cup double in the 1997-98 season. During his time at Highbury, Manninger made 39 appearances and left many memorable impressions.

After leaving Arsenal, his playing career spanned across Europe, having played for clubs such as Juventus, Udinese, Siena, Torino, and Red Bull Salzburg. In the final stage of his career, Manninger returned to England to play for Liverpool in the 2016 season before retiring. At the national team level, he made 33 appearances for Austria between 1999–2009 and was part of the squad for EURO 2008 hosted on home soil.

The sudden passing of Alex Manninger is a great loss for Austrian football and fans in general, concluding the life of a talented goalkeeper who made his mark in many top European competitions.