Former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died at the age of 48 after his car was struck by a train at a level crossing near Salzburg, Austrian police confirmed.
Authorities said the accident happened around 08:20 local time when Manninger’s vehicle was hit at a railway crossing. Emergency teams reached the scene quickly and attempted to revive him using a defibrillator after he was pulled from the wreckage, but he could not be saved. Police also confirmed that the train driver was not injured.
Manninger, who was alone in the car at the time of the incident, began his professional football journey with Red Bull Salzburg before going on to play for several clubs across Europe. His career included spells in Italy, Germany, Spain, and England, making him one of Austria’s most experienced international goalkeepers of his generation.
He made 64 appearances for Arsenal between 1997 and 2002, where he was part of the squad that won both the Premier League and FA Cup. Although he was mainly a backup to David Seaman, he played a key role during the 1997–98 season when injuries gave him a run in the first team.
That season, Manninger delivered several standout performances, including a memorable penalty shootout win over West Ham in the FA Cup and a strong display in a victory against Manchester United at Old Trafford. His form earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award in March 1998.
Internationally, Manninger earned 33 caps for Austria and was part of the national squad for Euro 2008, held in his home country.
Throughout his career, he also played for clubs such as Juventus, Udinese, Siena, Augsburg, and others, including a short-term spell at Liverpool in 2016, although he did not make a competitive appearance for the English side.
Tributes have poured in following the news of his death. The Austrian Football Association described him as a respected ambassador for the sport, praising his professionalism, calm personality, and reliability both on and off the pitch.
Former club Juventus also expressed deep sadness, calling him a player of strong character and humility, while highlighting his contribution during his time with the team.
Liverpool said it was deeply saddened by the news, and Arsenal also paid tribute, stating that everyone at the club was shocked by the sudden passing of their former goalkeeper.
Supporters and former teammates have also shared messages of condolence, remembering Manninger not only for his football career but also for his professionalism and character throughout his time in the sport.
His death has shocked the football community across Europe, with many remembering him as a reliable goalkeeper who served multiple top clubs and earned respect wherever he played.
Authorities are continuing to review the circumstances of the accident, but early reports confirm it was a tragic collision at a railway crossing.
Football across Austria and beyond is now mourning the loss of a player who spent more than two decades in professional football and left a lasting impression on the clubs he represented.
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