Stella Pinewood
A Turkish agent confirmed Saturday that Ghanaian winger Christian Atsu had died under the building where he lived after last week’s massive earthquake. He was 31.
Atsu had been missing since the Feb. 6 earthquake following the collapse of an apartment building in Hatay province. But his lifeless body was found under the rubble,” his agent said.
In September last year, Atsu joined Hatayspor after playing for Everton, Chelsea, and Newcastle United in the English Premier League.
Hours before the quake, Atsu was scheduled to fly out of southern Turkey. The Ghanaian player opted to stay with Hatayspor after scoring the winning goal on Feb. 5.
Tributes from various clubs and the Premier League read:
“We will not forget you, Atsu. Peace be upon you, beautiful person. There are no words to describe our sadness.”
— Hatayspor wrote on Twitter.
“A talented player and a special person, he will always be fondly remembered by our players, staff and supporters.”
— Newcastle
We are deeply saddened by the news that 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.
— Premier League (@premierleague) February 18, 2023
“Our heartfelt condolences to Christian’s family and friends and to all those affected by the earthquake tragedy,”
— Chelsea
Atsu joined Chelsea from Porto in 2013 and spent time on loan at Vitesse and Bournemouth.
As a member of Ghana’s national team, Atsu helped the team reach the finals of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. The last time he played for Ghana was in 2019.
A report circulated among Atsu’s friends and family members claiming Atsu had been saved. However, the reports were later revealed to be inaccurate, and he and his club’s sporting director, Taner Savut, remain missing.
Meanwhile, the contractor of the 12-story Ronesans Rezidans building — where Atsu and Savut lived — was detained at Istanbul Airport a week ago, trying to flee the country.
By Magnus Naabe RexDanquah, the Ghanaian
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Source: Omanghana.com/SP
