CAF & NFF send condolences to Ghana following Christian Atsu’s death
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially commiserated with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) over the unfortunate death of Black Stars’ ace, Christian Atsu in the tragic Türkiye earthquake.
Atsu, who represented his country 65 times, played for a number of clubs including Everton, Chelsea, Newcastle in England and Porto. At the time of his tragic death, he was plying his trade in Turkey for Hatayspor.
Reports quoting the player’s agent indicated that Atsu was found dead in the rubble and his remains had been flown to Ghana for burial, sending shock waves around the world.
In a letter signed by the General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, the NFF said it was devastated by the news about one of Ghana’s standout performers on the pitch, and prayed earnestly for God to comfort the family, friends, the GFA and the entire Ghanaian football family for his demise.
“Our collective grief knows no bounds for a highly dedicated professional who was one of the very best at his craft, a super patriot who served Ghana to the best of his abilities and a stellar talent of the beautiful game.
“We remember Atsu as that rare talent who was the overwhelming choice for Player of the Tournament at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Equatorial Guinea, and also won the Goal of the Tournament award.
“We mourn a true Black Star who gave his all to the game, but we are consoled by the giant footprints he left in the sands of time, and pray that God Almighty will grant him eternal rest, and also grant his family, friends, the GFA and the Ghana Football family the fortitude to bear the loss.”
READ ALSO: Ex-Newcastle United’s Christian Atsu of Ghana dies in Turkey quake
In a statement released by CAF Communication Department, the African football administrative body “is saddened by the tragic passing of Ghana international, Christian Atsu following the earthquake in Turkey.”
“CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe and African Football Family conveys heartfelt condolences to his family and Ghanaian Football Family. May Christian Atsu’s soul rest in peace.”
Atsu was 31 at the time of death. The remains of the Ghanaian footballer arrived in Ghana from Turkey on 18th February, 2023.
Source: Daily Trust, CAF
Abeeb Lekan Sodiq is a Managing Editor & Writer at theafricandream.net. He is as well a Graphics Designer and also known as Arakunrin Lekan.
