“We had a perfect life. You were an incredible father to our children”

So begins the heartbreaking message Emily Manninger posted on Facebook in memory of her husband, Alexander, who met his tragic end on April 16. The former Austrian goalkeeper, at Arsenal, Juventus, Fiorentina and Siena, was in his car was hit by a train at a barrier-free railway level crossing in Nussdorf am Haunsberg, a town near Salzburg.

“Putting our family's tragedy into words is extremely difficult, if not impossible. So please, let me try!”

In the letter, his wife talks about their family, about Alex as a father, friend and husband. The post is accompanied by photos of the couple on their wedding day and other images of happy moments with their children. On Sunday, Juventus paid him an impressive tribute at the Allianz Stadium, with his former Bianconeri teammates laying a wreath in the 16-yard box.

“Alex, I cannot express the unimaginable pain I feel. We are not the kind of family to share this pain publicly, but I have no choice because the outpouring of love from around the world has overwhelmed me. I think it is important to express what kind of man you were at home, the hugely admired man you were on the field.

Today, I sit at home with our family, trying to understand what our reality is like. Putting into words the tragedy we face as a family is extremely difficult, if not impossible. So please let me try. Alex, thank you for our two sons, Alexander and Nicolas.

They are my heart and soul. We often discussed how everything turned out exactly as you planned. You wanted children so badly, but you wanted them to happen after your career was over, when you knew you would have time to spend with them. That's exactly what you did.

Alex, you were the most incredible father to the boys, they adored you beyond belief. Being your wife was my purpose. Not only were you my husband, but you were also my best friend.” Emily began her long message.

“If we needed anything, we could count on you”

“I had such a perfect life,” she continued in the letter. “We've done so many things, hiking together, summer boating on lakes, paddleboarding, backgammon, hiking, skiing, golfing and staying in beautiful mountain hotels with the boys…the list is endless.

Alexander Manninger, with his family / Photo: Facebook Ally Begg

Salzburg is our home. I feel privileged to be in such a beautiful and safe place with our children, so thank you for giving this life to our family.

I know how much you loved me and our boys. We adored you Lexx and our families were so happy for us. You had a very loyal circle of true friends, a reflection of your character.

Now these friends support and comfort me. You had a huge impact on so many people you met. You were extremely respectful: calm, honest, organized, motivated, kind and loyal. You were highly educated and spoke several languages, including Scouse (no – the dialect of Liverpool, where Manninger ended his career).

“I don't think we as a family deserved this, but I believe there is a God above and He welcomed you home to your father”

You were well-travelled, knowledgeable and sensitive. Fascinating to me and many others who simply enjoyed sitting and talking with you. You were a wonderful son to your wonderful mother. Receiving this news broke my heart and tore our entire family apart.

Alex and Emily Manninger / Photo: Facebook Ally Begg

Now I have to be strong for you and our children. I don't think we as a family deserved this, but I do believe there is a God above and He welcomed you home to your father.

To anyone who reads my lines, please pray for my children. Until we meet again, thank you Lexx. I will love you forever. Your little girl, Emily.