Former Arsenal Goalkeeper Alex Manninger Dies In Traffic Accident

Former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died in a traffic accident at the age of 48.

He played for Arsenal for five years between 1997-2002, helping the Gunners win the Premier League and FA Cup double under Arsene Wenger in 1998.

The announcement was made by his first club, Red Bull Salzburg.

The Austrian team said: “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.”

As well as Arsenal and Salzburg, Manninger also played for clubs in Italy, Germany and Spain, including Juventus, Augsburg and Espanyol.

He made 64 appearances with the Gunners between 1997 and 2002, and finished his career at Liverpool but didn’t make an appearance there.

In his first season, he was understudy to Arsenal and England legend, David Seaman, making seven appearances in the Premier League and saving a penalty in the FA Cup semi-final shootout win over West Ham.