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The body of former Newcastle United footballer, Christian Atsu has been found under the rubble of the building where he lived in Turkey.
Atsu, who had been playing for Turkish Super Lig side Hatayspor, was missing since earthquakes hit Turkey and Syria on February 6.
The 31-year-old had been misidentified and falsely reported as hospitalised last week.
A statement from the representative of Atsu, 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.”
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.
A minute’s silence was held at St James’ Park on Saturday night ahead of the Premier League match against Liverpool, in memory of Atsu.
The Ghanaian became a fan favourite on Tyneside, making 107 appearances between 2016 and 2021 and scoring eight goals.
He moved to Newcastle from Chelsea on a permanent deal for £6.2m 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.
His Turkey-based agent, Murat Uzunmehmet, told reporters that Atsu was found beneath the rubble of his home in southern Turkey.
He said: “Atsu’s lifeless body was found under the rubble. Rest in peace.”
Atsu also enjoyed a decorated career at international level, making 65 appearances for Ghana and scoring nine times.
He represented the West African nation at the 2014 World Cup and was named player of the tournament at the 2015 African Cup of Nations, in which Ghana were finalists.
Atsu first moved to Portugal aged 17 to pursue football, signing for Porto the same year.
Ghana’s foreign ministry wrote in a statement on Saturday morning: “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 February 6 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 Embassy is currently making the necessary arrangements with the assistance of the Government of Turkey to have the body transported to Ghana for burial.”
Tributes have flooded in from across the football world.
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