Football Mourns Loss of 1998 Double-Winning Goalkeeper
The football world is in mourning following the tragic death of former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger. The Austrian, who was a member of the Gunners' historic 1997/98 Premier League and FA Cup double-winning squad, died in a traffic accident at the age of 48.
A Salzburg Academy Graduate
The news was confirmed by his first professional club, Red Bull Salzburg, where Manninger came through the youth academy. The club posted a statement on social media platform X, stating: "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."
Clubs: Arsenal, Fiorentina, Siena, Juventus, Red Bull Salzburg, FC Augsburg, Liverpool
Arsenal Appearances: 64 (1997-2002)
International Caps: 33 for Austria
Major Honour: Premier League & FA Cup Double (1997/98)
Arsenal's Reliable Deputy
Manninger joined Arsenal in 1997 as understudy to legendary England goalkeeper David Seaman. His most significant contribution came during that double-winning campaign, where he made seven crucial Premier League appearances while Seaman was injured. He famously saved a penalty in the FA Cup semi-final shootout victory over West Ham United, helping secure the Gunners' path to Wembley. Over five years in North London, he made 64 appearances, establishing himself as a reliable and popular figure within the squad.
A Well-Travelled Career
After leaving Arsenal in 2002, Manninger embarked on a journeyman career across Europe's top leagues. He had spells in Serie A with Fiorentina, Siena, and a stint at Italian giants Juventus. He later returned to his native Austria with Red Bull Salzburg and played in the German Bundesliga for FC Augsburg. He finished his playing career at Liverpool in 2017, though he did not make a competitive appearance for the Reds.
At international level, Manninger was a stalwart for Austria, earning 33 caps and being selected for the squad that co-hosted UEFA Euro 2008 with Switzerland.
Key Takeaways
- Former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died aged 48 following a traffic accident.
- He was a member of Arsenal's 1997/98 Premier League and FA Cup double-winning squad, making key contributions during David Seaman's absence.
- His career spanned over two decades, featuring clubs in England, Italy, Austria, and Germany.
- He earned 33 caps for Austria and was part of their Euro 2008 squad.
- The news was announced by his first club, Red Bull Salzburg, where he developed as a youth player.
Tributes have begun to pour in from across the football community for a goalkeeper remembered for his professionalism, talent, and role in one of English football's most celebrated teams. The thoughts of the global football family are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
