Harrowing photos have been released from the scene of a car crash following the death of former Liverpool and Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger on Thursday morning. The 48-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene after his car collided with a train at a railroad crossing near Salzburg at around 7:20 a.m.
Local police said first responders used a defibrillator on Manninger, who was alone in the car at the time of the incident. He was dragged by a train and freed from the car, but could not be revived. Police also announced that the train driver was not injured in the incident.
Photos from the scene show a yellow ambulance helicopter landing in a field next to the crash site and emergency workers surrounding the car and train. It is a tribute to the former footballer, who Liverpool plied their trade at Anfield in 2016-2017.
“Liverpool FC is deeply saddened by the passing of former goalkeeper Alex Manninger, aged 48. The Austrian arrived at Anfield in July 2016, spending the final season of his long playing career with the Reds,” the club wrote.
“Joining as an experienced reserve goalkeeper, he played in two friendlies and was included in the matchday squad four times that season. Over the course of 20 years, Manninger represented a number of clubs in Europe, including local team Red Bull Salzburg, Arsenal, Fiorentina, Juventus and FC Augsburg.”
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“He won 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.”
Arsenal also released a statement paying tribute to Manninger, who spent five years at Highbury between 1997 and 2002, sharing a photo of the goalkeeper and writing: “Everyone at Arsenal is shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic passing of former goalkeeper Alex Manninger.”
“All our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this incredibly sad time. Rest in peace, Alex.”
Peter Schottel, Sporting Director of the Austrian Football Association, added: “Alexander Manninger was an excellent ambassador for Austrian football on and off the pitch. His international career set standards and was an inspiration and influence to many young goalkeepers.”
“His professionalism, calmness and reliability made him an important part of the team 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.”
