International soccer star Fabian Caballero has tragically died suddenly at just 46 years old.
Caballero, who was known by his nickname “Tyson,” had a 19-year career in soccer.
The Paraguayan striker played for top clubs in Argentina, England, Scotland, Paraguay, South Korea, Cyprus, Greece, and Chile.
He played for the famous UK soccer club Arsenal in the 1998/99 season.
However, Caballero achieved cult hero status in Scotland when he moved to play for Dundee.
Caballero was the club’s player of the year in 2003/04.
Reports in Paraguay say Caballero collapsed unexpectedly and died while playing futsal with friends in the country’s capital Asuncion.
Futsal is a soccer-based game played on a smaller hardcourt like a basketball court.
Arsenal confirmed the tragic news in a statement on X, saying:
“Everyone at the club is deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of our former player, Fabian Caballero.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”
The club paid tribute to Caballero during Arsenal’s 4-2 win over Leicester.
Arsenal projected a picture of Caballero on the screens at the Emirates Stadium.
In a statement, the Paraguayan Football Association said:
“The Paraguayan Football Association deeply regrets the passing of former footballer, Fabián Caballero, who had an outstanding career both in Paraguayan football and abroad.
“We accompany the family and friends in this difficult time.”
Tributes from fans have also poured in, with one saying: “Rest in peace legend.”
Another wrote: “What a player. Tragic news.”
A Dundee supporter added: “Absolutely struggling for words.
“Total shock. What a player.
“My favourite ever Dundee player and was lucky enough to meet him a few times. What a guy.
“Proper heartbroken by this one. Rest easy Fabian.”
More commented: “Absolutely gutted to hear this news – Fabian will forever be remembered as a legend of this club.
“I loved watching him play and he lit up the park whenever he pulled on the dark blue shirt.”
Former Dundee teammate Steve Lovell said:
“I am devastated to hear the news of Fabian’s passing.
“He was a fan favourite and it’s easy to see why.
“He was such a gifted player and I never had the privilege of playing with someone quite like him again. RIP Fab.”
After hanging up his boots, Caballero went into coaching and managed Sportivo Ameliano in his homeland.
He also ran as an Asuncion city councillor in 2015.
No cause of death has been revealed.
