Cardiff City is reportedly demanding £104 million in compensation from FC Nantes over the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of Emiliano Sala in 2019.
The latest development in the ongoing legal battle between the two clubs stems from Cardiff’s belief that Sala’s goals could have prevented their relegation from the Premier League. According to French publication L’Equipe, Cardiff will present their case before the Nantes Commercial Court on Monday, arguing that they have suffered a significant financial loss due to Sala’s absence.
Cardiff’s claim is based on data analysis conducted by Analytics FC, which suggests that Sala had a 54.2% chance of helping the club avoid relegation had he played for them during the second half of the 2018-19 season. The club’s calculations include expected goals and points gained, which they believe demonstrate Sala’s potential impact on their Premier League status.
Cardiff’s legal expert, Maurice Nussenbaum, argues that the financial loss incurred by the club, including relegation-related costs and reputational damage, amounts to approximately £104 million. Nantes, however, has launched a counter-claim based on “moral damage” and is seeking a fine against Cardiff.
Cardiff’s initial argument to FIFA that Sala was not officially registered as their player at the time of the crash and therefore they were not liable for the £15 million transfer fee was rejected. FIFA ruled that the transfer had been completed and imposed a transfer embargo on Cardiff for non-payment. The embargo was lifted in January 2023 after Cardiff’s owner, Vincent Tan, paid the full amount to Nantes.
Tan has previously expressed his anger over the situation, stating that Cardiff “will not stop” fighting for compensation. He believes that Sala’s goals could have saved the club from relegation and prevented significant financial losses.
The outcome of this latest legal battle remains to be seen, but it highlights the complex and often acrimonious nature of player transfers and the tragic consequences that can arise from unforeseen events.
