Newcastle United has announced that they will observe a minute’s silence before their next game to remember Christian Atsu, a former winger who died in the recent devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. More than 45,000 people were killed in the disaster, and Atsu’s agent confirmed that he was one of the victims, despite being only 31 years old.
Atsu’s body was recovered earlier today, according to a statement released by his representative, Nana Cherry. According to the statement, “It is with heavy hearts that I must inform all well-wishers that Chrissy Atsu’s body was recovered this morning. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his family and loved ones. I’d like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to everyone for their prayers and support. I ask that everyone please respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time while we make the necessary arrangements.”
Atsu was a gifted player who earned 65 Ghanaian caps and appeared in the 2014 World Cup. He joined Chelsea from Porto ten years ago but spent the majority of his time on loan, including spells at Everton and Bournemouth in the Premier League, as well as Malaga and Vitesse Arnhem. He joined Newcastle on loan in 2016 and won the Championship that season before signing a permanent deal. Before leaving Newcastle in 2021, Atsu had made over 100 appearances in all competitions for the club, scoring eight times.
When the earthquake struck, Atsu was playing for Hatayspor, a club in southern Turkey. On February 5th, he scored the game-winning goal in their final game before the disaster. The death of Atsu is a tragic loss for the football world, and his former clubs have expressed their condolences.
Newcastle United paid tribute to the former winger on Twitter, writing, “We are deeply saddened to learn that Christian Atsu died tragically in Turkey’s devastating earthquakes. He will be remembered fondly by our players, staff, and supporters as a talented player and a special person. Christian, please rest in peace.” Everton expressed similar sentiments, saying, “We are deeply saddened by the news that Christian Atsu has died as a result of the earthquake in Turkey earlier this month. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, Hatayspor colleagues, and everyone else affected by this tragic event that has claimed so many lives.”
Chelsea, Atsu’s former club, also expressed their grief at his death. Former Chelsea captain and teammate John Terry expressed his condolences on Twitter, writing, “R.I.P my friend.” Atsu’s death has shocked the football world, and he will be missed by all who knew him.
Atsu’s death emphasizes the devastation that natural disasters can cause in people’s lives. Tens of thousands of people were killed in the earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria, and the tragedy will be felt for years to come. The football world has lost a special person and a talented player, and our hearts go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
