Emiliano Sala tributes flock as Mesut Ozil, Wayne Rooney and Maradona lead prayers

Tributes were paid to footballer Emiliano Sala after his body was found in the Channel and officially identified.

The other football stars reacted after the confirmation of his death, which occurred almost three weeks after the crash of his plane as he was heading from Nantes to Cardiff.

The Cardiff City football club, which Sala recently signed for a record 15 million pounds, said in a statement: "We offer our deepest condolences and condolences to Emiliano's family.

"He and David will forever be in our thoughts."

Sergio Aguero, an Argentinian from Manchester City, tweeted: "Rest in peace, Emiliano, My condolences to his friends and family, #PrayForSala".

Argentine President Mauricio Macri – who had joined calls for the resumption of search for the plane after its cancellation – also posted a message on Twitter, sending his condolences to the family of Sala, adding: "We are with you ".

The light aircraft was flown by David Ibbotson, who was not found.

Arsenal player Mesut Ozil wrote: "No words to describe how sad he is, his thoughts and prayers are with his family and the pilot's family.

Diego Maradona has published a tribute on Instagram.

He recounted that many had kept a "light of hope" for the footballer, adding: "I send a big hug to your family and friends".

Benjamin Mendy from Manchester City tweeted a picture of Sala, while Paris Saint-Germain footballer Kylian Mbappe wrote simply: "RIP EMI".

The Everton player, Oumar Nibade, who is currently on loan in Cardiff City, tweeted: "RIP @ EmilianoSala1 Forever in our thoughts".

The devastated sister Romina has published her own tribute on Instagram.

She wrote, "Your soul in my soul will shine forever, thus illuminating the time of my existence. I like you, tito. "