The Ghanaian footballer died in a twin earthquake that struck Turkey on February 6,2023.
“Atsu, apart from the work we did together at Crime Check, was like a brother to me. He played a pivotal role during my wife’s illness and even after she died”
“I am struggling to come to terms with his departure,this is difficult “ he said.
The 31-year-old, was caught up in a 7.8-magnitude quake that rocked Turkey and Syria on February 6, killing more than 44,000 people in both countries.
There were initial reports that the former Chelsea and Newcastle player had been rescued.
Subsequently, the reports turned out to be false and his lifeless body was found on Saturday,18,February 2023.
His remains was received by the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, family members and some dignitaries at the Kotoka International Airport, on Sunday, February,19,2023.
The government of Ghana has announced that it will collaborate with the family to give the late footballer a befitting burial.
However, details of the final funeral rites are yet to be announced by the family.
“ We will like for you to accompany us to meet the government delegation working on our son’s funeral rites, we know you were close to our son, therefore, we will need your input” the family head, Nene Twasam told Oppong Kwarteng.
Atsu scored the last of his 33 career goals for Hatayspor in Turkey’s Super Lig on February 5, 2023, few hours before the quake struck.