Christian Atsu’s mortal remains received by family in Accra
Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu’s mortal remains arrived in Ghana on Sunday evening, February 19, 2023, at around 7:30 pm local time.
Atsu’s body was brought back to Ghana by a Turkish Airways flight, accompanied by his twin sister and the Ghana Ambassador to Turkey, Francisca Ashietey-Odunton.
The casket was draped in the country’s national flag and was met by Atsu’s family, government officials, officials from the Ghana Football Association, and fans gathered to receive the body.
It was an atmosphere of pain and sorrow as tears flowed freely from the crowd present as they mourned the loss of the talented winger.
Speaking at the event, the Vice President of Ghana, Dr Mamudu Bawumia extended his condolences to Atsu’s immediate and extended family and reassured them that the state will keep in touch with them and give Atsu a befitting burial.
Atsu, who was only 31 years old, had a successful career both internationally and locally. He played for several clubs including FC Porto, Vitesse, Everton, Malaga, Newcastle United, and most recently Hatayspor in Turkey.
His sudden and tragic death has sent shockwaves throughout the football community in Ghana and beyond, with many expressing their condolences and sharing memories of the player, the notable of them being his best friend Mubarak Wakasu.
Atsu was confirmed dead on Saturday after being trapped under the rubble for 12 days following the earthquake in Turkey and Syria.