Liverpool pay tribute to former goalkeeper Alex Manninger, 48, after tragic loss of life in automobile crash
Former Liverpool goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died at the age of 48 after his car was hit by a train near Salzburg, Austria, with tributes pouring in from his former clubs
Liverpool have paid tribute to former goalkeeper Alex Manninger(Image: Getty)
Liverpool have paid tribute to their former goalkeeper Alex Manninger, who tragically died at the age of 48 after his car was struck by a train.
The Austrian spent one season at Anfield from 2016 until 2017, initially joining for training before signing a short-term contract. He retired shortly thereafter. Manninger also made 64 appearances for Arsenal and clinched an FA Cup and Premier League title in north London.
He passed away on Thursday morning, with police reporting that the incident happened at 8:20am local time in Salzburg, Austria, when his car was hit by a train at an unguarded level crossing in the municipality of Nußdorf am Haunsberg.
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Local media outlet Salzburg ORF claim Manninger’s car had been hit while crossing near Nussdorf am Haunsberg. It’s believed he was tended to by first responders at the scene after the car was dragged several metres. He was freed from the vehicle as paramedics arrived at the scene to provide further treatment but he was sadly unable to be saved.
It’s thought he was the only person in the car, with the train’s driver and passengers reportedly unharmed. A police investigation into the crash is underway.
The Reds have expressed their condolences to their former player, with their statement reading: “Liverpool FC is deeply saddened by the passing of former goalkeeper Alex Manninger at the age of 48.
“The Austrian arrived at Anfield in July 2016 to spend the final season of his lengthy playing career as a Red. Brought in as an experienced back-up goalkeeper, he featured in two friendly fixtures and was named in the matchday squad on four occasions during that campaign.”
“Manninger represented a host of clubs in Europe across two decades – including hometown side Red Bull Salzburg, Arsenal, Fiorentina, Juventus and FC Augsburg.”
More of Manninger’s former clubs have also released statements, including Red Bull Salzburg. Their tribute reads: “He earned 33 senior caps for Austria, the first of which came in August 1999. The thoughts of everyone at LFC are with Alex’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Several of Manninger’s previous clubs have also issued statements, including Red Bull Salzburg. Their tribute reads: “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.”
SV Austria Salzburg also expressed their sorrow: “With great dismay, we have learned of the tragic accident in Nußdorf in which Alexander Manninger lost his life.”
“Alexander was from 1984 to 1996 not only a part of the Austria family, but above all a person who left his mark, both on and off the pitch.”
“In these difficult hours, our deepest sympathy goes to his family, his loved ones, and all who were close to him. The thoughts of all of Austria are with you. Rest in peace, Alexander!”
Austrian Football Association sporting director Peter Schöttel said: “Alexander Manninger was an outstanding ambassador for Austrian football, both on and off the pitch.”
“His international career set standards and inspired and influenced many young goalkeepers. His professionalism, composure, and reliability made him an important part of his teams and the national team. His achievements deserve the highest respect and will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
