Former Arsenal and Austria keeper Alex Manninger died at 48 after a car was struck by a train at a level crossing in Salzburg on Thursday. The incident, confirmed by police and Austria’s national broadcaster ORF, left the driver dead despite CPR. Manninger’s death shocked clubs across Europe.

His career spanned nine European clubs, beginning with a £500,000 transfer from Grazer AK to Arsenal in 1997. At the Gunners he made 64 appearances and won a Premier League title before moving to Espanyol, Torino, Bologna, Siena and Juventus, where he added a Serie A medal. Manninger earned 33 caps for Austria.

Salzburg FC, Juventus, Liverpool, the Austrian FA and Arsenal all posted heartfelt condolences on X. Salzburg marked his passing with a tribute, while Juventus praised his humility and professionalism. Liverpool noted he never made a competitive appearance for them, and the Austrian FA called him an outstanding ambassador who shaped future goalkeepers.

Manninger’s sudden death leaves a void for the clubs he served and for the Austrian national team, where he was a reliable presence. His legacy as a disciplined goalkeeper and mentor endures, reminding clubs of the importance of professionalism both on and off the pitch. The football community mourns a true icon.