The Argentinian forward tragically lost his life when the plane carrying him from France to Wales crashed in the ChannelEmiliano Sala(Image: Getty Images)

Cardiff City have released a strongly-worded statement on the eve of a landmark court hearing in France, where the club will seek €120.2 million in damages from FC Nantes over the tragic death of Emiliano Sala.

Monday marks a seismic moment in the case between the two clubs, which has rumbled on for almost seven years since that unspeakably sad moment back in January 2019.

Proceedings will begin at 5pm local time (4pm UK) on Monday, December 8, at the Nantes Commercial Court, with the hearing expected to last around three hours.

A French judge will first deliver an initial summary of the case, having reviewed all documents submitted by both clubs, before legal teams from each side present their arguments.

The judge will consider two key questions; whether FC Nantes is liable for Cardiff’s financial losses linked to the actions of Willie McKay — the agent Cardiff claim was acting on Nantes’ behalf — and, if so, what level of damages should be awarded. A final verdict is not expected until spring 2026.

In a statement released on Sunday, Cardiff said the hearing “will finally hear the substance” of their case, reiterating their belief that FC Nantes should be held responsible for the conduct of McKay, whose involvement in the transfer has long been the subject of scrutiny.

“This tragedy, which began nearly seven years ago, cost Emiliano Sala his life,” the club said.

“It is a tragedy that could and should have been avoided, had the people involved in the transfer on FC Nantes’ side not relied on the services of a banned agent, who went on to organise illegal flights to get the deal done.”

Cardiff argue that McKay was effectively acting as Nantes’ agent when he arranged the flight that crashed over the English Channel in January 2019, killing the Argentine striker.

The club said the hearing represents “another step towards uncovering the truth and establishing more accountability in football”, insisting their pursuit of damages is not an attack on the sport but an attempt to protect its integrity.

“This case isn’t about harming football: it’s about protecting its integrity,” they added.

“This is about ensuring higher standards across our sport, especially surrounding transfers. Because Emiliano Sala deserved better. Because football deserves better.”