Christian Atsu was a Ghanaian footballer who tragically lost his life in a devastating earthquake that rocked Turkey and Syria on February 6. At just 31 years old, Atsu had already made a name for himself in the football world, playing for several notable clubs throughout his career. However, his life was cut short when he was caught up in the 7.8-magnitude quake that resulted in the deaths of over 43,000 people in both countries. Despite initial reports that he had been rescued, it was later confirmed that Atsu had died in the earthquake. In this post, we will explore more about Atsu, i.e. who was Christian Atsu and how did he die?
Who was Christian Atsu?
Christian Atsu was a Ghanaian football player who played as a winger or other positions. He started his career with Porto and then played for different clubs on loan or permanent transfer, including Newcastle United. He also played for Ghana in international tournaments like the World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations. Sadly, he died in the 2023 Turkey-Syria earthquake when he was 31 years old.
Early Life
Atsu was born in Ada Foah in Ghana. He went to a football academy called Feyenoord in Gomoa Fetteh. This academy is now called West African Football Academy in Sogakope. Atsu then joined a club called Cheetah FC which is in Kasoa.
Club Career
Atsu is a Ghanaian footballer who started his professional career in Porto when he was 17. He was sent on loan to Rio Ave and scored against Benfica. He returned to Porto in 2012, where he helped the team win the national championship. He then joined Chelsea in 2013 for £3.5 million and was loaned to Vitesse Arnhem, Everton, Bournemouth, and Malaga. In 2017, he signed a four-year deal with Newcastle for £6.2 million from Chelsea. In 2021, he joined Al-Raed but only played eight games due to injury. He is currently playing for Hatayspor.
International Career
Atsu played soccer for Ghana’s national team and did well. He was a potential future star and was selected for important tournaments, including the World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations. He scored goals and won awards for his performance. He was also selected for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
How did Christian Atsu die?
On 6 February 2023, Atsu went missing after an earthquake in Turkey. His club initially said he was rescued, but later confirmed he was still missing. His agent later confirmed that his shoes were found, but not him. Sadly, on 18 February, it was confirmed that his body was found under the rubble. Newcastle United paid tribute to him in their game against Liverpool with a minute of applause, and other Premier League games also paid tribute.
FAQs
Christian Atsu is a Ghanaian professional footballer who played as a winger for several clubs, including Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Hatayspor.
Christian Atsu was born on January 10, 1992.
Atsu started his football career with Porto in 2010 and later joined Chelsea in 2013.
Atsu was named the Best Player at the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup and won the Portuguese Primeira Liga with Porto in 2012. He also won the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations with Ghana.
Christian Atsu went missing in the immediate aftermath of the 2023 Turkey-Syria earthquake, and his body was later recovered from the rubble of the building he was residing in.
Also read: Christian Atsu Net Worth
Image Source: Getty Images
