Christian Atsu, the former footballer for Newcastle United and Chelsea, was discovered dead following the earthquake that devastated Turkey and Syria about two weeks ago.
The 31-year-old has been missing since the earthquake that devastated southern and central Turkey as well as northern and western Syria on February 6, 2023. He moved to Hatayspor in September 2022.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, Atsu’s body was discovered in the city of Hatay.
On Saturday, his agent Nana Sechere posted on social media:“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,”
“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,” he added.
Moreover, he went on to iterate that:
“I ask that whilst we make the necessary arrangements, that everyone would please respect the privacy of the family during this very difficult time.”
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
— Nana Sechere (@iAmNana7) February 18, 2023
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
According to Reuters, the story was confirmed by Atsu’s Turkish agent, Murat Uzunmehmet.
Atsu’s lifeless body was discovered beneath the debris, Uzunmehmet informed the media in Hatay.
As of now, almost 45,000 individuals have perished as a result of the earthquake. After spending a year in Saudi Arabia with Al-Raed, Atsu joined Hatayspor in September 2022.
He played for Porto, Chelsea, Everton, and Newcastle United in addition to earning 65 Ghanaian caps.
In light of the sad news of his passing, Newcastle posted on social media:
“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,” it added.