Body of Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu found in Turkey quake rubble

Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu has been found dead under the building where he lived in southern Turkey after last week’s earthquakes in the region, the ex-Chelsea winger’s agent said on Saturday.

Atsu, 31, was caught up in a 7.8-magnitude quake that rocked Turkey and Syria on February 6, killing more than 45,000 people in both countries.

There were initial reports he had been rescued a day after the quake, but these turned out to be false.

“Atsu’s lifeless body was found under the rubble,” Murat Uzunmehmet told reporters in Hatay, where Atsu’s body was found. “Currently, more items are still being taken out. His phone was also found.”

“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,” his other agent Nana Sechere wrote on Twitter, “I ask that whilst we make the necessary arrangements, that everyone would please respect the privacy of the family during this very difficult time.”

Atsu had joined the Turkish Super Lig club in September 2022 after spending one season at Saudi club Al-Raed. The winger had previous spells with Premier League sides Everton, Chelsea and Newcastle.