Ghana International player, Christian Atsu lifeless body was found under rubbles after devastating earthquake that hit Turkey last week. He was found dead under the building where he lived in southern Turkey his agent said on Saturday.
Following the collapse of an apartment building in Hatay due to the earthquake on the 6 February, Atsu had been missing. “Atsu’s lifeless body was found under the rubble,” Murat Uzunmehmet told reporters in Hatay. “Currently, more items are still being taken out. His phone was also found.”
Atsu had been scheduled to fly out of southern Turkey hours before the quake, but Hatayspor’s manager said on Friday the Ghanaian opted to stay with the club after scoring the winning goal in a Super Ligue match on the 5 of February.
His club Hatayspor said on Twitter “We will not forget you, Atsu. Peace be upon you, beautiful person. There are no words to describe our sadness,”.
Atsu had spells in the English Premier League with Everton, Chelsea and Newcastle United. He joined Hatayspor in September 2022. Many around the World have been pouring out their hearts in his memory, including his former clubs.
In a tribute Newcastle said: “A talented player and a special person, he will always be fondly remembered by our players, staff and supporters.”
Also in the same vein, Chelsea FC said “Chelsea sends our heartfelt condolences to Christian’s family and friends and to all those affected by the earthquake tragedy,”.
Atsu won 65 caps for Ghana and helped them reach the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations final, where they lost to Ivory Coast on penalties. He was last selected to play for Ghana in 2019.
It is estimated that more than 45,000 people have been killed by the massive earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria in the past week. Many are still missing and it is expected that the toll will increase with some 264,000 apartments in Turkey destroyed by the disaster.