Christian Atsu’s body found 2 weeks after Turkey earthquake

The world of soccer is in mourning after the tragic death of Ghanaian soccer star Christian Atsu.

At the time of his demise, Atsu was a contract with Turkish club Hatayspor.

Atsu’s body was discovered under rubble almost two weeks after the earthquake that devastated Turkey and Syria.

Atsu’s agent, Nana Sechere, confirmed the news on Twitter, stating that Atsu’s body had been recovered from the rubble of a destroyed building in Antakya, Turkey.

“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.” Sechere tweeted.

“My deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones.”

Atsu’s body will be sent back to Ghana, his homeland, where he will be mourned by his family and loved ones.

Atsu went missing after the magnitude 7.8 earthquake hit Turkey and Syria on February 6, causing widespread devastation and loss of life.

In the immediate aftermath of the quake, there was confusion as to Atsu’s whereabouts, with some reports suggesting that he had been located and was in hospital.

However, Sechere confirmed on February 8 that Atsu was still missing.

Before joining Hatayspor last year, Atsu had played in the Saudi Pro League for Al Raed FC.

He had also represented several English clubs, including Chelsea, Everton, Bournemouth and Newcastle.

Newcastle United, for whom Atsu played from 2016 to 2021, making 121 appearances and helping the club gain promotion to the English Premier League, tweeted: “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.”

Everton said on Twitter that it was “deeply saddened, ” while Chelsea said in a statement that the club “sends our heartfelt condolences to Christian’s family and friends.”

Atsu was also a star for his national team, representing Ghana 65 times and helping the Black Stars reach the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations final.

Although Ghana lost that match to the Ivory Coast on penalties, Atsu was named player of the tournament, reflecting his immense talent and skill on the soccer field.

The Ghana Football Association expressed its deepest condolences to Atsu’s wife and children.