Ghanaian celebs pay tribute to Christian Atsu

The high hopes of many Ghanaians of the recovery of former ex-Black Stars player, Christian Atsu alive from the rubbles of the Türkiye earthquake which happened almost a fortnight ago, were dashed with news of his death.

The unfortunate death news of Atsu, who won the Best Player at the 2015 Africa World Cup qualifications tournament has sent Ghanaians and many of his fans around the world into a state of misery.

A number of Ghanaian celebrities such as CEO of EIB Network, Bola Ray, musician A Plus and actress Lyia Forson as well as former Black Stars players including Stephen Appiah and Asamoah Gyan have been paying tributes to the deceased on social media.

Bola Ray tweeted, “This is sad indeed”. “No” was the best words Lydia Forson could tweet to define her present mood.

iOna Reine: Though we might not understand cos it hurts so bad yet we will trust in you lord for we know who you are , Rest Well Christian Atsu son of the soil you will be missed.

Media personality, Cookie Tee tweeted, “RIP CHRISTIAN ATSU, May God keep your family safe ߙo amount of words will bring you back, rest in peace in the Heart of the Lord.”

According to Stephen Appiah, this was not the news they were expecting. “This was not the news we were expecting”

Describing Atsu a king, Michael Essien tweeted, “Rest Well King.”

 “Rest In Peace, Brother” was the best words Asamoah Gyan at this depressing moment.

Read also Ghanaians pay tributes to Christian Atsu on social media

President Nana Akufo Addo and former President John Mahama have similarly paid their respective tributes and condolences to the family and Ghanaians.

"On behalf of the Government and people of Ghana, I extend sincere, heartfelt condolences to the widow, children and family of our fellow Ghanaian, Christian Atsu, on the sad news of his death."

Using a scripture from Job 1:21, the President said, "The LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away..."

Atsu was found dead in his apartment on Saturday morning, February 18, 2023, following an earthquake that hit almost two weeks ago in Türkiye.

Rescue operations could not immediately retrieve the striker from the rubbles when the incident happened.

Atsu who played for Hatayspor before his tragic death was one of the star players from the Chelsea academy before heading to Türkiye.

Atsu had scored for Hatayspor Kulubu, their only goal in that game, the day before the disaster struck.

The 31-year-old was residing in an apartment in the Hatay city which suffered huge damages during the quake.

Over 41,000 lives have been lost with many injured. A few survivors have been rescued though hopes dwindle after almost two weeks.

Christian Atsu's Manager, Nana Sechere who had travelled to Turkey and was providing follow ups during the week confirmed the striker's death in a tweet.

Atsu played 65 times for Ghana, scoring nine goals and was a member of the Black Star squad who featured at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

In a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration confirming Atsu’s death earlier today, it mentioned that the latter’s body will be flown into Ghana for burial.

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Former President Mahama shares emotional tribute on Atsu

Christian Atsu’s twin sister, elder brother were present when body was recovered - Ministry