Emiliano Sala’s Family to Fund Private Search for Striker and Pilot

Emiliano Sala’s family are planning to privately fund search efforts for the missing Argentine striker and pilot David Ibbotson.

The pair went missing on Monday after their plane went missing off the coast of Guernsey in the English Channel.

Guernsey Police began a three-day rescue mission but have called-off the operation due to the time that’s elapsed since the disappearance.

The footballing world has since come together in a plea to the rescue team to continue the task.

But Sala’s family have reportedly planned to fund the search themselves, Argentina media report, per The Sun.

The family are planning to hire boats to search the channel area. The French striker’s mother Mercedes has travelled to Guernsey today to meet with his agent Meissa N’Diaye.

His sister made a heartfelt plea for the efforts to continue: “Please don’t give up searching for my brother. I know he is still alive.

“In my heart I know that Emiliano is a fighter and I know he is still alive.

“Emiliano and the pilot are in the Channel. Please do not stop searching.

“The last time I spoke to him was on Monday when he spoke to the Nantes players. He was really excited to come here to Cardiff. We were in touch all day long.”

“It is incredible to see the support from people all around the world.

“Even though we understand the effort, the prayer is the same. Please do not stop.”

Chances of finding the pair are shrinking smaller by the minute, but the family believe they can be found and are not losing hope.