Former Ghana President John Mahama has expressed his heartfelt condolences following the tragic news of Christian Atsu’s death in the aftermath of the Turkey earthquake.
Atsu was trapped for nearly 12 days, and while Mahama held onto the hope of a miracle and the possibility of the Black Stars winger’s safe rescue, the tragic outcome has left him saddened.
“We all held our breaths, and we prayed as we heard the miracles of people pulled out of the rubble.”
“We prayed that ours would be one of those miracles, too. Alas, it was not to be. But in all, we give thanks to the almighty God for giving Atsu to us even for the short 31 years of his life.”
“At this time, Lordina and I extend our deepest condolences to his family and the football fraternity in Ghana and across the globe,” a statement read.
Atsu was found deceased under the rubble following the devastating earthquake that occurred in Turkey on February 6.
Atsu’s agent Nana Sechere confirmed, “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, everyone would please respect the privacy of the family during this very difficult time.”
Atsu played for various European clubs, such as Chelsea, FC Porto, Newcastle United, Everton, and Bournemouth.
Atsu joined Hatayaspor in September of last year, and just hours before the natural disaster that has claimed over 45,000 lives, he scored his first goal for the club on Sunday, February 5.
Ghana Embassy in Turkey has arranged for Atsu’s body to be brought home for burial.