Former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died at the age of 48 after his car was struck by a train. Manninger played 64 matches for Arsenal between 1997 and 2002, winning the Premier League and the FA Cup during his tenure. He also played 33 matches for Austria and was part of the national team that participated in the 2008 Euro Championship in his home country, according to BBC News.

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

Manninger's professionalism, calm demeanor, and seriousness made him an integral part of his teams and the national squad. "His accomplishments deserve the highest respect and will be unforgettable," Schottel added.

Manninger began his career with Red Bull Salzburg and played for 14 clubs across Europe, including Sienna, Juventus, Udinese, and Augsburg. At 39 years old, he signed a short-term contract with Liverpool in July 2016 but did not play.

During his time at Arsenal, Manninger was largely the understudy to David Seaman but took over as the injured English goalkeeper's replacement at the end of the 1997-98 season. In that season, Manninger helped Arsenal win the FA Cup in a penalty shootout against West Ham in the sixth round and made an impressive performance in a memorable victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford. He was named the Premier League's Player of the Month for March.

Manninger's tragic death is a significant loss to the football community and his legacy will be remembered by fans and former teammates alike.