In a poignant final interview given just days before his untimely passing, former goalkeeper Alex Manninger opened up about the profound enjoyment he derived from his spell at Liverpool, which marked the conclusion of his professional career. The Austrian shot-stopper also reflected on his earlier Premier League triumph with Arsenal, painting a vivid picture of a life dedicated to football.
A Tragic Loss for the Football World
Alex Manninger, the esteemed Austrian goalkeeper, tragically died at the age of 48 on Thursday after his car was struck by a train in Salzburg. Local reports indicate that the incident occurred at a level crossing in Pabing, near Nussdorf am Haunsberg, at approximately 8:20 am. His vehicle was dragged several metres by the train, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. This sudden loss has sent shockwaves through the football community, with tributes pouring in from clubs and fans alike.
Liverpool: A Fitting Final Chapter
Manninger's final club before retirement was Liverpool, a move orchestrated by then-manager Jurgen Klopp. In his interview with Gazetta Dello Sport, Manninger recounted a pivotal phone call with Klopp that convinced him to see out his career at Anfield. "It all started with a phone call," Manninger revealed. "Jurgen knew everything about me. I'd beaten his Borussia Dortmund side with Augsburg two years earlier. [He said] 'I want that goalkeeper there. That day you saved everything against us. You have to do it for me, too'."
Despite never making a competitive appearance for Liverpool, serving as backup to Simon Mignolet, Manninger cherished his time at the club. "I never actually played, I was 40, but leaving football and saying goodbye to the fans in front of the Kop was an amazing feeling," he expressed. This emotional farewell underscored the deep connection he felt with the Liverpool faithful, highlighting how the experience transcended mere playing time.
Premier League Success with Arsenal
Prior to his stint at Liverpool, Manninger enjoyed significant success with Arsenal, where he was part of the first double-winning side assembled by Arsene Wenger in 1998. The Gunners secured both the Premier League title and the FA Cup that year, with Manninger playing a crucial role. Reflecting on this period, he said, "It still excites me just thinking about it. I was 20 years old, I was a kid. Wenger wanted to bring an international dimension to the club and focus on youngsters, I was one of them."
Manninger credited veteran defender Tony Adams for his development during this time. "Despite my age, I felt calm in goal. I had a monster like Tony Adams in front of me. He taught me a lot," he recalled. However, he admitted to one regret: "I only have one regret: Leaving too soon. But you know, I wanted to play." This desire for regular first-team football eventually led him to depart Arsenal, but his contributions to their historic season remain a proud part of his legacy.
A Storied Career Across Europe
Beyond his spells in England, Alex Manninger's career spanned several top European clubs, including Fiorentina, Torino, Bologna, Siena, Juventus, Red Bull Salzburg, and Augsburg. It was his standout performance for Augsburg against Jurgen Klopp's Borussia Dortmund that ultimately caught the German manager's attention, paving the way for his move to Liverpool. This diverse experience across multiple leagues showcased his adaptability and skill as a goalkeeper.
Manninger's journey from a young prospect at Arsenal to a seasoned professional ending his career at Liverpool illustrates the unpredictable and often emotional nature of football. His final interview serves as a heartfelt testament to the passion and dedication that defined his life in the sport, leaving behind memories that will be cherished by fans and colleagues for years to come.
