Christian Atsu's body found under rubble after 11 day search

Christian Atsu was one of the victims of the deadly earthquakes in Turkey. After looking for him for several days, the player has been found dead under the rubble. 

The player's agent, Nana Sechere, announced the news on social media. "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," he wrote. 

"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. Please respect the privacy of the family during this very difficult time," Sechere added.

The Hatayspor playewas found 11 days after many people all over the world prayed for him and hoped he would be found alive. Sadly, those prayers were not answered.

 

February 18, 2023

The club the footballer played also expressed their immense sadness. "We're saddened by his loss. Atsu, who lost his life under the rubble, will be repatriated to his homeland, Ghana. We won't forget you. May peace be with you, beautiful person. There are no words to describe our sadness. Rest in peace," Hatayspor wrote on social media. 

Some clubs in Turkey, like second tier side Kocaelispor, have also commented on the news after reading the tweets from Atsu's agent. "We lost you. May God have mercy on Atsu, who died aged 31. Our condolences to his family, Hatayspor and to all their fan," the club wrote on Twitter.

Since the earthquakes, there had been conflicting reports on Atsu's wellbeing. It ended up being reported that the player had been found alive, but that news was later denied. 

The player was in a nine storey building when it collapsed because of the earthquakes. Three days ago, some miners went into the area as they heard three sounds. 

Atsu was about to leave Turkey and go to France: "He had to go there to see his family, but as he was playing well and he scored against Kasimpasa, he cancelled the flight ticket," Nana Sechere revealed a few days ago. 

During his career, the right winger played for Porto, Rio Ave, Chelsea, Vitesse, Everton, AFC Bournemouth, Malaga, Newcastle and Al Raed before moving to Hatayspor.

Sadly, Atsu's career and life were cut short and he was one of the more than 35,000 people to lose their lives in the earthquakes. Rest in peace, Christian.

 

February 18, 2023