Former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died at 48 after his car was struck by a train
The news of Alex Manninger’s passing was shared by his first club Red Bull Salzburg.
Former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died in a traffic accident at 48. According to reports, his car was struck by a train. In a translated post, Red Bull Salzburg wrote: “We are mourning for our former goalkeeper Alexander Manninger, who was tragically injured in a traffic accident. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in peace Alexander. 🕊️”
In response to the news, one person wrote: “🕊️ 🕯️ Fly high Alex, just like you flew as a successful goalie! RIP,” whilst another said: “Rest in peace 🕯🙏.”
Austrian Football Association sporting director Peter Schottel paid tribute to him and said: "Alexander Manninger was an outstanding ambassador for Austrian football, both on and off the pitch.
"His professionalism, composure and reliability made him an integral part of his teams and the national team.
"His achievements deserve the utmost respect and will be unforgettable."
When Alex Manninger signed for Arsenal in 1997, he was the first Austrian footballer to play in the Premier League. Whilst he was at the club, he appeared for them 39 times and won the league title and the FA Cup with them. Fabrizio Romano shared the news of Alex’s passing on X.
Fabrizio Romano wrote: “Former Juventus and Arsenal GK Alex Manninger has passed away in a car accident at 48 years old. Rest in peace, Alex. “
Alex Manninger also played for Juventus, the club’s statement about his passing reads as follows: “All of Juventus, its fans, and the entire football world today mourn the loss of Alexander Manninger, who has tragically passed away at the age of 48.
“Having arrived in Turin in the summer of 2008, he was with Juventus for four seasons, demonstrating that the role of goalkeeper is not just about making saves, but also about charisma, reliability, and a quiet spirit of sacrifice.
“In an era marked by the monumental presence of Gigi Buffon, Manninger knew how to be ready whenever called upon, becoming a key figure in the locker room and a safe bet between the posts.
“Today we bid farewell not only to a great athlete, but to a man of rare values: humility, dedication, and an uncommon professionalism.
“Juventus extends its deepest sympathies to Alex's family and all his loved ones in this moment of profound grief.
Giorgio Chiellini said: "Today is a very sad day; we are losing an exemplary teammate and a truly valuable person.
Goodbye Alex, rest in peace. Our deepest thoughts are with your family."