Sala Search Re-start: League Players, crowds raise N76.3million

 

The search for missing Cardiff City striker Emiliano Sala and pilot Dave Ibbotson could restart after a GoFundMe campaign supported by Premier League stars Laurent Koscielny and Ilkay Gundogan raised more than £160,000 about (N76.3million)within a day.

Over 2,000 people had responded to the appeal for funds. The target had originally been set at £129, 00 (€150,000) euros but was bumped up to £431, 00 (€500,00) after a spate of generous donations.

Footballer Adrien Rabiot boosted donations Saturday afternoon by putting up €25,000 (£21,500), to help with the private search for Sala.

Several other footballers, including Arsenal captain Koscielny and Manchester City midfielder Gundogan also donated large sums to boost the total.

The cash appeal was launched by Sport Cover, the name of Emiliano’s agent Meissa N’Diaye’s Paris-based football agency.

A message on the web fundraiser, which carries the Spanish language hashtag #NoDejenDeBuscar Emiliano Sala and means

‘Don’t Stop Looking for Emiliano Sala’, said: ‘This fund was created in response to the urgency of the situation and the authorities’ decision not to pursue the search.

‘Its sole objective, through a specialized non-profit organization, is to help the family of Emiliano and pilot Dave Ibbotson continue the search.

One fan who donated 20 euros wrote: ‘Emiliano, if there’s only the slightest hope I’m donating these 20 euros for the resumption of the search.

‘You are in my heart and I want to help your family find you in any way I can.

‘Whatever happens, you will always be in my thoughts. You are a great footballer and a wonderful person.

Manchester City and Burnley observed a minute silence for Sala just before their FA cup tie that saw Man city hammer Burnley 5-0