Former Arsenal and Austria international goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died in a tragic accident after the car he was travelling in was struck by a train at a level crossing near Salzburg, Austrian authorities have confirmed.
Police said the incident occurred at approximately 8:30am local time on Thursday (16 April) when the vehicle was hit at a railway crossing and dragged for a considerable distance by the train. Manninger, aged 48, was the sole occupant of the car at the time of the collision. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The circumstances surrounding the crash are currently under investigation, with authorities examining how the vehicle came to be on the crossing at the moment of impact. No other injuries have been reported.
Career in top-flight football
Manninger enjoyed a distinguished career across several European leagues and is best remembered for his time in the English Premier League with Arsenal between 1997 and 2002.
During his spell in north London, he made 64 appearances for the club and served primarily as deputy to first-choice goalkeeper David Seaman. However, he rose to prominence during the latter stages of the 1997–98 season when an injury to Seaman gave him an extended run in the starting XI.
His performances that season were widely praised, and in March 1998 he was named Premier League Player of the Month, a rare achievement for a goalkeeper.
International career with Austria
At international level, Manninger earned 33 caps for Austria national football team and represented his country at major tournaments, including UEFA Euro 2008, which Austria co-hosted.
He was regarded as a dependable and composed presence in goal, contributing significantly to Austria’s squad depth during his international career.
Football community pays tribute
Tributes have poured in following news of his sudden death. Peter Schöttel, Sporting Director of the Austrian Football Association, described Manninger as an “outstanding ambassador” for Austrian football both on and off the pitch.
“He represented Austrian football with great professionalism and dignity throughout his career,” Schöttel said. “His contribution will not be forgotten.”
Career overview
| Category |
Details |
| Full name |
Alex Manninger |
| Age |
48 |
| Position |
Goalkeeper |
| Club career highlight |
Arsenal (1997–2002), 64 appearances |
| International caps |
33 (Austria) |
| Major tournament |
UEFA Euro 2008 |
| Notable achievement |
Premier League Player of the Month (March 1998) |
| Circumstances of death |
Vehicle struck by train at Salzburg level crossing |
Legacy remembered
Manninger is remembered as part of Arsenal’s transitional era before the club’s dominant late-1990s and early-2000s period under Arsène Wenger. His calmness under pressure and reliability during key fixtures earned him respect among teammates and supporters alike.
Beyond his time in England, he also played for several clubs across Italy, Germany, and Austria, building a career defined by adaptability and professionalism.
His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the footballing community, particularly in Austria and at Arsenal, where he remains a well-regarded figure from a pivotal period in the club’s history.
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