CHRISTIAN Atsu has died aged 31, his agent and manager have both confirmed.
The former Premier League footballer, who played for both Newcastle United and Chelsea, went missing following the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria on Monday, February 6. His body has now been discovered and the sad news was confirmed on Saturday morning, the British Daily Mirror newspaper reported.
His agent, Nana Sechere, said: ‘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, that everyone would please respect the privacy of the family during this very difficult time,’ the Daily Mirror reported him as saying.
Hatayspor tweeted: ‘Sorry for your loss. The funeral of our football player Christian Atsu, who lost his life under the collapse, is on his way to be sent to his hometown Ghana. We will not forget you, Atsu. Peace be upon you, beautiful person. There are no words to describe our sadness. Rest in peace.’
Newcastle said they were ‘profoundly saddened’ by the death of Atsu, who was part of the team which won promotion back to the Premier League in 2017.
‘A talented player and a special person, he will always be fondly remembered by our players, staff and supporters,’ a statement said.
There will be a minute’s silence at St James’ Park on Saturday night ahead of the Premier League match against Liverpool in memory of Atsu.
The Ghanaian became a Newcastle fan favourite, making 107 appearances between 2016 and 2021 and scoring eight goals.
He moved to Newcastle from Chelsea on a permanent deal for £6.2 million in 2017.
Chelsea said they received the news of Atsu’s death with ‘enormous sadness’.
‘Chelsea sends our heartfelt condolences to Christian’s family and friends and to all those affected by the earthquake tragedy,’ a statement said.
Former Chelsea club captain John Terry tweeted: ‘RIP my friend.’
Atsu also played for Premier League clubs including Bournemouth and Everton.
The earthquake in Turkey and Syria has led to more than 45,000 deaths, with thousands more injured. It has ruined the lives of millions, with many people left without access to water, electricity or heat during a bitterly cold winter in the region.
