The wife of late goalkeeper Alex Manninger has spoken of the 'unimaginable pain' that has 'broken' her following the unexpected death of her husband. Emily Manninger paid an emotional tribute to the former Arsenal and Liverpool shot-stopper, describing him as an 'amazing father' and her best friend.
Manninger died aged 48 last week when his car was struck by a train in Salzburg. Local reports state he was driving at a level crossing in Pabing, near Nussdorf am Haunsberg, when his vehicle was dragged several metres by the train. He is survived by Emily and their two sons, Alexander and Nicolas.
In a 22-year career, Manninger played for 15 different clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool, Juventus and Fiorentina, before retiring after a spell under Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool. The Austrian international also earned caps for his national team. Following his death, tributes poured in from across the football world.
Writing on social media, Emily said: "I cannot express the unimaginable pain I am feeling. We are not the sort of family to share such sorrow and pain publicly, but I have no choice, as the outpouring of love from around the world has overwhelmed me." She added: "Alex, you were the most amazing father to the boys — they absolutely adored you. Being your wife was where I belonged. Not only were you my husband, you were my best friend."
Emily described their 'perfect life' together, enjoying walks, lakes, paddleboarding, hiking, skiing and golfing. "Receiving the news has broken me as a person, and our family as a whole," she wrote. "I have to be strong now for you and our sons."
Arsenal said they were "shocked and deeply saddened" by the tragic passing, while Liverpool said the thoughts of everyone at the club were with Manninger's family. Juventus called him "a man of rare values", and Fiorentina said they mourned the sudden passing of a former goalkeeper.
