A clip of Emiliano Sala's final goal has been shared around social media after the football community was met with the tragic news that the body Dorset Police found in the wreckage in the English channel was his.
Sala was in very good form in the last three campaigns for Nantes, bagging 12 league goals in each season and prompting Cardiff City to make him their club-record signing.
What turned out to be his last goal before the tragic incident came in December and it while it makes for a difficult watch, it really shows what he meant to Nantes.
Abdoulaye Toure whipped in a glorious cross from the head and Sala nodded home with a bullet header to pull his side level against Marseille in a game they went on to win 3-2.
Advert
The 28-year old was full of emotion and passion once he found the net, jumping over the advertising hoards and celebrating with his teammates and fans.
It's so sad that him furthering his career by signing for Cardiff and then going back to Nantes to say goodbye to his teammates ultimately cost him his life.
Nantes, though, will never forget what he did for them in his three-year stint. Today they confirmed that the No.9 shirt Sala wore with distinction will be retired in his honour.
The French club issued a heartfelt statement this morning, detailing the impact Sala had at the club and promising to never forget him.
Advert
"FC Nantes had the immense sadness to learn this Thursday that the body found was that of Emiliano Sala. This news puts an end to an endless and unsustainable waiting. Emiliano will forever be part of the legends that have written the great story of FC Nantes." it read.
"There are difficult mornings, nightmarish awakenings where unfortunately reality catches up with us. Emi 'went away ...
"Arrived on the banks of the Edre in July 2015, Emiliano Sala has won the hearts of supporters in Nantes. Through his work, his anger and limitless kindness, he finished top scorer in the Yellow House for the last three seasons.
"The national and international tributes that were returned to him are up to the person and the player he was. We are losing today a friend, a talented player, an exemplary teammate.
Advert
"We do not forget in this drama the pilot and his family and trust the authorities to continue the research.
"For Waldemar Kita, President of FC Nantes: "I do not have the words, it's a tragedy, I'm devastated, Emiliano left his mark, which is why, like many fans, I want to honor him again by removing the number 9 ".
"FC Nantes, its leaders, staff, players and staff present the families of Emiliano Sala and David Ibbotson and their families their deepest condolences. We will never forget you Emi.
"It's an Argentinian who does not let anything, Emiliano Sala, Emiliano Sala ..."
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Marseille, Football News, David Ibbotson, Football, Goal, Emiliano Sala, Ligue One, France, Cardiff City
