Fabian Caballero dies aged 46 as Arsenal pay tribute to former player
Former Arsenal loanee Fabian Caballero has passed away with a number of his previous clubs paying tribute to his life following the news
by Scott Trotter · The MirrorArsenal have paid tribute to former player Fabian Caballero who has died aged 46.
Caballero spent a short stint on loan with the Gunners during the 1998/99 season from Paraguayan side Cerro Porteno before later spending six years with Dundee . The striker made 142 appearances for the Scottish side.
Born in Argentina, Caballero spent his teenage years in Paraguay where he started his career before moving to north London on loan. Caballero made his Premier League debut against Middlesbrough replacing Freddie Ljungberg but spent more time in Arsenal's reserves featuring alongside the likes of Nwankwo Kanu in that time.
Arsenal posted on X: "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."
Caballero forged his way into the hearts of Dundee supporters as he scored 26 goals in his spell with the club, including a brace against Celtic when the Dark Blues earned their first win against the Bhoys in 13 years. The Argentine returned to the club in November to take part in Cammy Kerr's testimonial and received a significant reception ahead of his introduction.
The club said in a statement: "All at Dundee Football Club are extremely shocked and saddened this morning to learn of the passing of former Dundee player Fabián Caballero.
"Fabian passed away at the age of 46 and will be greatly missed by everyone at Dundee Football Club. Fabián signed for The Dee in July 2000 and became a fan’s favourite amongst the Dundee supporters.
"The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Fabián’s family at this very sad time.
"The club will issue a full tribute to Fabián later today. Rest in peace Fabián."
Caballero spent much of his career in Paraguay featuring for the likes of Olimpia Asuncion, Tacuary and Nacional Asuncion. The forward also played in South Korea (Daejeon Citizen), Cyprus (Alki), Chile (Provincial Osorno), Greece (Panachaiki) and Guatemala (Municipal).
Caballero also spent a short spell in coaching. He coached Sportivo Ameliano youth teams and first team as player-coach. The Paraguayan FA lauded his career following the news.
They said in a statement: "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."
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