World

Ex-keeper Manninger dies after car hit by train

Former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger dies at the age of 48 after his car is struck by a train.

Published April 16, 2026, 1:53 PM
Updated May 11, 2026, 8:40 PM1.7K
Share𝕏f
Ex-keeper Manninger dies after car hit by train

"Alexander Manninger was an outstanding ambassador for Austrian football, both on and off the pitch," said Austrian Football Association sporting director Peter Schottel.

"His professionalism, composure and reliability made him an integral part of his teams and the national team.

"His achievements deserve the utmost respect and will be unforgettable."

Salzburg police said first responders used a defibrillator on Manninger, who was alone in the car, after he was freed from the vehicle but could not resuscitate him.

Police also said that the train driver was unharmed.

Manninger began his career with hometown club Red Bull Salzburg and spent time with 14 teams across Europe, including Sienna, Juventus, Udinese and Augsburg.

He signed a short-term deal with Liverpool as a 39-year-old in 2016 but did not play.

During his time at Arsenal Manninger largely played second fiddle to David Seaman, but deputised for the injured England keeper late in the 1997-98 season.

That season Manninger helped Arsenal beat West Ham on penalties in the FA Cup sixth round and impressed in a memorable win against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Manninger was named Premier League player of the month for March 1998.

Share𝕏f
News17 is committed to delivering accurate, fair, and thoroughly researched reporting. If you believe this article contains an error, please contact our editorial team at corrections@news17.net. We take all reports seriously and will issue corrections promptly when warranted.