The body of former Chelsea and Newcastle winger Christian Atsu has been found following the devastating earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria earlier this month.
Sporting Tribune reports that over 42,000 people lost their lives to the disaster, while Atsu’s whereabouts had been unknown ever since the earthquake hit on February 6.
Reports that he had been found alive, which had initially been confirmed by Atsu’s agent, were unfortunately disproven and it has now been confirmed by the Ghanaian’s representatives that he has been found dead.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce to all well wishers that sadly Christian Atsu’s body was recovered this morning,” agent Nana Sechere revealed on Twitter.
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“My deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers and support.”
Atsu, who was on the books at Turkish side Hatayspor, was 31 at the time of his death.
The winger came through the youth setup at Porto before his move to Chelsea in 2013, and he would go on to spend time on loan with Vitesee, Everton, Bournemouth, Malaga and Newcastle, eventually joining the latter permanently in 2017.
A move to Saudi side Al Raed followed four years later, before Atsu moved to Turkey in September 2022.
In total, Atsu managed 80 appearances in the Premier League, scoring three goals and adding a further seven assists.
Ghanaian President Nana Akuffo Addo
@NAkufoAddo I extend sincere, heartfelt condolences to the widow, children and family of our fellow Ghanaian, Christian Atsu, on the sad news of his death. Ghana football has lost one of its finest personnel and ambassadors, one who will be difficult to replace. He’ll be sorely missed.
@GhanaBlackstars Christian Atsu won 65 caps for Ghana and helped the Black Stars reach the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations final in Equatorial Guinea, winning the Player of the tournament. You served our Country well, forever in our hearts. Rest in Peace
@PremierLeague We are deeply saddened by the news Christian Atsu lost his life in the devastation of the earthquakes that have hit Turkey and Syria. Our thoughts and condolences are with Christian’s family and friends and everyone affected by this tragic event.
@NUFC We are profoundly saddened to learn that Christian Atsu has tragically lost his life in Turkey’s devastating earthquakes. A talented player and a special person, he will always be fondly remembered by our players, staff and supporters. Rest in peace, Christian.
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@MimisoFawaz Christian Atsu a Ghana Black Star. Remembering Atsu who was the player of the tournament at AFCON 2015. Brought Wonderful memories to a nation and continent. Rest in peace
@ChelseaFC Everyone at Chelsea Football Club is devastated to learn of the tragic passing of our former player, Christian Atsu. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends.
@AnthonyBaffoe Gone but never forgotten what a genuine God fearing person ..this is so sad my condolences to all the family members rest well Christian Atsu.
@towett_BHSC Desperately sad news about the death of Christian Atsu. He has been found dead under debris .He was one of the most humble players at Newcastle, and so selfless with his charity work in Africa. RIP soldier.
@lee_ryder Christian Atsu loved Newcastle. He gave his all on the pitch for #nufc and always spoke to media afterwards as he wanted to thank fans win, lose or draw. Off it you wouldn’t meet a kinder guy spent his spare time sending funds to Ghana to build schools and community projects RIP.