By: Henrietta Afful
Former President John Dramani Mahama has joined millions of people paying tribute to Black Stars player, Christian Atsu, following the announcement of his death in Turkey on Saturday, February 18, 2023.
The winger had been missing since the February 6, 2023 quake that caused the collapse of his apartment in Antakya, Hatay. More than 40, 000 people are known to have been killed in the earthquake and aftershocks in southern Turkey and northern Syria.
In a tribute, the former President thanked God for Atsu’s life though short-lived.
His agent Nana Sechere, who has been in Hatay, confirmed the news on Saturday on Twitter, writing: “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.”
The Ghana international aged 31, had spells with Premier League sides Everton, Chelsea and Newcastle.
He joined Hatayspor in September 2022 after a season with Saudi Arabian team Al-Raed and scored the winning goal in a Super Lig match on 5th February, 2023.
He won 65 caps for Ghana and Ghana reach the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations final where they lost to Ivory Coast on penalties.
Atsu was later named player of the tournament.