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By Anthony Nlebem
Ghana Ministry of Affairs and Regional Integration in Turkey has confirmed the death of Ghanaian star Christian Atsu who died following a devastating earthquake that happened in Turkey and Syria on Monday, February 6.
The former Premier League footballer, who played for both Newcastle United and Chelsea, went missing but his agent on February 18 confirmed Atsu is dead and his body has been found under the rubble.
Confirming the news, Ghana Embassy in Turkey in a statement released on Saturday, February 18, said it was saddened by the death of the 31-year-old winder and sent condolences to his family.
The Ghana Embassy in Turkey which conveyed the sad news indicates that the body was recovered early this morning, Saturday, 181h February 2023. The elder brother and twin sister of Christian Atsu and an Officer of the Embassy were present at the site when the body was recovered.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has received the unfortunate news of the recovery of the body of Christian Atsu from the rubble of his apartment, following the earthquake which struck Turkey on 6th February 2023. This comes after almost 12 days of tortuous search by a rescue team, ” the ministry said in a statement.
“Government extends our deepest condolences to the widow and family of Christian Alsu. The Embassy is currently making the necessary arrangements with the assistance of the Government of Turkey to have the body transported to Ghana for burial. The public will be updated on further developments.”
Atsu started his professional career with Porto – where he won the Primeira Liga title – and spent time on loan at fellow Portuguese side Rio Ave. He joined Chelsea in September 2013 but never played a minute for the Premier League club during his four-year spell.
His agent, Nana Sechere, also sent condolences while announcing his death on Saturday,
“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.
“I ask that whilst we make the necessary arrangements, everyone would please respect the privacy of the family during this very difficult time.”