Former Chelsea and Newcastle United player Christian Atsu has been found dead after the earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria nearly two weeks ago.
The 31-year-old, who moved to Hatayspor in September 2022, has been missing since the earthquake that struck southern and central Turkey as well as northern and western Syria on February 6.
Atsu’s body was found under the earthquake rubble in the city of Hatay.
“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,” agent Nana Sechere revealed on Twitter.
“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.”
Atsu, who was on the books at Turkish side Hatayspor, was 31 at the time of his death.
The winger came through the youth setup at Porto before his move to Chelsea in 2013, and he would go on to spend time on loan with Vitesee, Everton, Bournemouth, Malaga and Newcastle, eventually joining the latter permanently in 2017.
A move to Saudi side Al Raed followed four years later, before Atsu moved to Turkey in September 2022.
In total, Atsu managed 80 appearances in the Premier League, scoring three goals and adding a further seven assists.
