Atsu had been missing since the 6 February quake that caused the collapse of his apartment in the city of Hatay.
Initially, his club Hatayspor reported that he was rescued “with injuries,” but a day later, the position changed.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce to all well-wishers that sadly Christian Atsu’s body was recovered this morning. My deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers and support,” his agent Nana Sechere tweeted on Saturday.
It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce to all well wishers that sadly Christian Atsu’s body was recovered this morning
My deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers and support
— Nana Sechere (@iAmNana7) February 18, 2023
Atsu joined the Turkish top-flight side Hatayspor in September 2022 and scored the winning goal in a Super Lig match on 5 February.
The news of Atsu’s death has sent shockwaves through the football community, and tributes have been pouring in from all over the world.
The quakes and aftershocks in southern Turkey and northern Syria have claimed the lives of more than 40,000 people.