Former Arsenal FC goalkeeper Alexander Manninger has died at the age of 48 after his car was struck by a train in Austria.
The tragic incident occurred in the Salzburg region on Thursday, according to local reports, with authorities confirming that no other persons were injured. Police say investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the accident.
Manninger, who earned 33 caps for the Austrian national team, featured for his country at the UEFA Euro 2008 tournament hosted on home soil.
In a statement, his former club Red Bull Salzburg expressed grief over his passing, describing it as a tragic loss and extending condolences to his family and friends.
“We mourn our former goalkeeper Alexander Manninger, who tragically lost his life in a traffic accident,” the club said.
Tributes also poured in from Austrian Football Association and Arsenal, both of which described him as a respected figure in football.
Manninger made 64 appearances for Arsenal between 1997 and 2002, winning both the Premier League and FA Cup during his time at the club.
Over a career that spanned more than two decades, he also played for several European sides, including Juventus FC, Udinese Calcio, AC Siena and FC Augsburg.
He briefly joined Liverpool FC in 2016 on a short-term deal but did not make a competitive appearance.
Manninger is remembered for his professionalism and contribution to club and country, with the football community mourning his sudden death.
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