The 31-year-old had been missing since the night of the earthquake on the 6th of February. There were false reports circling that the Ghanaian had been taken to hospital a week prior due to misidentification.
Atsu’s agent took to twitter to share the sad news stating, “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”. Going on further to send out “deepest condolences” to his family and loved ones.
The winger had a spell at multiple Premier League clubs during his career including Chelsea where he signed in 2013, during his time at Stamford Bridge he had loans to a range of clubs. He did not make a competitive start for the Chelsea first team but did remain at the club till 2017, spending time with the likes of Vitesse, Everton, Malaga, and Bournemouth.
During a loan spell with Newcastle United in 2016, Atsu helped the team to win promotion from the Championship under Rafael Benitez’ management. His loan spell was then made permanent, going on to make 121 appearances for the black and white army and scoring 8 goals - whilst being a fan favourite. The star remained at the club until his 2021 departure in which he made a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Raed FC, before joining Turkish side Hatayspor in 2022.
Former clubs took to social media to express their tributes to the player including Chelsea stating, “Everyone at Chelsea Football Club is devastated to learn of the tragic passing of our former player, Christian Atsu”.
Everton also expressed their sadness stating they are “deeply saddened” by the news. Alongside this, the club has organised a tribute to be paid during their match with Leeds. As had Newcastle United who held a minute’s silence before kick-off against Liverpool.
Also having a successful international career, the winger helped his home nation Ghana to reach the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations and secured 65 caps. Atsu was also named player of the tournament during the 2015 tournament.
Since the earthquake struck in early February, the death toll has since risen above 45 thousand with many more injured and remaining unfound. This event has been labelled as the worst natural disaster in a century.
