The body of Ghanaian football star Christian Atsu has finally been recovered from the rubble of the earthquake that devastated Turkey and neighboring Syria.
This sad development has officially ended any hope of a magical reunion for Atsu with family, friends, and loved ones again.
Atsu’s agent, Murat Uzunmehmet, confirmed that the player’s body was found under the rubble after searching for the former Newcastle and Chelsea winger for almost two weeks during the quake.
He told reporters in Hatay: “Atsu’s lifeless body was found under the rubble. Now, more things are still being taken out. His cell phone was also found.”
Atsu’s other agent, Nana Sechere, also posted on Twitter on Saturday morning to write: “With the heaviest heart, I have to announce to everyone who is very happy that Christian Atsu’s body has recovered this morning.
“My deepest condolences go out to my family and loved ones. I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers and support.
Also, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also confirmed the sad development while also expressing its condolences to the player’s widow and family.
Arrangements have been made to transport Atsu’s body back to Ghana for burial according to a statement from the Ministry.
More than 45,000 people are estimated to have died in the earthquake, which struck Turkey and Syria.
Atsu scored a free kick in the 97th minute in his last game for Hatayaspor in a 1-0 win over Kasimpasa in the Turkish Super Lig on 5 February.
Also read: Three years dragged on for life 91 hours after deadly Turkish earthquake
Tragically, it had been claimed he was going to leave the country after the game, but then changed his mind.
Hatayspor Administrative Manager Fatih Ilek told Radyospor: “Christian Atsu told the coach that he wants to take more time before the match with Gaziantep FK. ‘Can I go if I find a team?’ Volkan Demirel also accepted this request.
“He didn’t play against Gaziantep FK, but scored a last-minute goal in the Kasımpasa match. Actually, he went abroad to visit his family. But when he played well and scored, he canceled his ticket. The earthquake happened on his happiest day. He has flight at 11 pm Cancel the ticket. There was an earthquake at 4 am It was a tragedy.
“This is a difficult situation and we are very grateful to all Turkish and foreign rescue teams, civilians and local volunteers for their efforts and response to save the survivors.”
After moving to Chelsea in 2013, Atsu spent eight years in English football.
During his time at the Blues, Atsu never played a competitive game, but enjoyed loan spells at Everton and Bournemouth.
Atsu then joined Newcastle on loan initially in 2016 and made the deal permanent a year later. The Ghana international made 121 appearances for the Magpies before leaving in 2021.
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