The glimmer of hope has finally faded away. The body of striker Emiliano Sala was finally identified by English authorities, sparking all sorts of reactions around the world.
The story of the 28-year-old footballer caught the eye of fans around the world when the private plane that was carrying him to Cardiff disappeared from all radars. As reported moments ago, the player's body was recovered on Wednesday. The body of pilot David Ibbotson is yet to be found.
Cardiff City released a statement on their website as soon as Dorset police revealed the news to the world.
"We offer our most heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the family of Emiliano. He and David will forever remain in our thoughts. #CityAsOne" the press release said.
Immediately, fans, footballers, teams and experts poured in to offer their condolences to the family and friends of the ill-fated footballer. Have a look at some of their messages.
"So sad, the worst of news. RIP to you, Warrior. My condolences to the family and friends of Emiliano Sala"
Que tristeza, la peor de las noticias. Q.e.p.d Guerrero, Mi pésame a los familiares y afectos de Emiliano Sala. pic.twitter.com/lRdOph01au
— Gabriel Batistuta (@GBatistutaOK) February 7, 2019
"Emiliano Sala (1990-2019) May he rest in peace"
Emiliano Sala (1990-2019)
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) February 7, 2019
Descanse en paz pic.twitter.com/SRZG0LQSsg
"#DeepestPain . Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of Emiliano Sala, following confirmation of his death"
#ProfundoDolor Ante la confirmación del fallecimiento de Emiliano Sala, le enviamos nuestras condolencias a toda su familia y seres queridos #PrayForSala pic.twitter.com/Wa7jt5ThTy
— AFA (@afa) February 7, 2019
Heartbreaking to hear the news about Emiliano Sala. Rest in peace! Thoughts go out to the family and friends of Emiliano and the pilot. pic.twitter.com/7P07jFmcQR
— Antonio Rüdiger (@ToniRuediger) February 8, 2019
QEPD Emiliano Sala pic.twitter.com/9iyPZ2gSDR
— Nico Tagliafico (@nico_taglia) February 7, 2019
Kylian Mbappé, who donated over $30,000 to fund the private search that found the wreckage, also joined those who mourn Sala.
RIP Emiliano Sala.
— FC Porto (@FCPorto) February 7, 2019
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.#FCPorto pic.twitter.com/Xehg73pIso
This very emotional video tribute to Emiliano Sala will hit you hard. You'll always be remembered by every football fan around the world.
— Mootaz Chehade (@MHChehade) February 8, 2019
pic.twitter.com/9ynlasTY9i
#LaLiga would like to extend their sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Emiliano Sala. Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/RaU7yaMzvG
— LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) February 7, 2019
"So long, Emiliano. San Lorenzo joins the family and close ones during their time of need."
Hasta siempre, Emiliano Sala. San Lorenzo acompaña a sus familiares y seres queridos en este duro momento. pic.twitter.com/dvrGbWwTQD
— San Lorenzo (@SanLorenzo) February 7, 2019
"I'm deeply saddened by the news. Most of us had a glimmer of hope for you, Emiliano. Let me send a big hug to your family and friends. On behalf of all Argentine people around the world, I'd like to thank football fans and colleagues for their respect. Godspeed, Emiliano!"