Former Arsenal, Juventus goalkeeper Alex Manninger killed in train accident in Austria
Former Arsenal and Juventus goalkeeper Alex Manninger, who also played for Austria, died in a car accident on Thursday at the age of 48, the Austrian Football Federation said.
Kronen Zeitung and other media outlets reported that Manninger’s vehicle was hit by a passenger train on an unrestricted crossing near Salzburg, Austria.
Manninger made 33 appearances for Austria between 1997 and 2001, playing mostly as a substitute for Arsenal. He ended his career in Liverpool (2016-17).
He played for Fiorentina, Torino, Bologna, Siena, Udinese and Juventus in Italy.
“Alexander Manninger was an outstanding ambassador for Austrian football on and off the field,” OEFB Sporting Director Peter Schoettel said in a statement.
“He set the standards with his international career and inspired and shaped many young goalkeepers. His professionalism, calmness and reliability made him an important part of both his team and the national team.”
Arsenal said everyone at the club was “shocked and deeply saddened” by Manninger’s tragic death.
“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this incredibly sad time.” the club said.
Juventus said “it’s a very sad day” The club had “lost not only a great athlete, but also a man with rare values: humility, commitment and an extraordinary sense of professionalism”.
“Alex Manninger will be remembered for the example he showed on and off the field. Juventus extends its deepest condolences and stands by his family in this moment of pain,” the statement said.
with AP
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