Atsu went missing on February 6, 2023, shortly after the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck southern Turkey and northern Syria, leaving over 10,000 people dead.

The 31-year-old was later reported to be among those that were trapped under rubble at his club, Hatayspor’s Antakya headquarters.

Atsu’s fate after the earthquake was the subject of conflicting later stories. Some suggested he had been rescued, while others, including his family, refuted these assertions.

There was no concrete information about his status or whereabouts as of February 14, 2023.

His agent later, announced that two of his shoes had been found, but Atsu himself had not yet been located.

His family appealed for more efforts in the search as they hoped he would be found alive.

However, following a tweet early on Saturday by Turkish-based football agent Murat Uzunmehmet, it’s now being reported that his body has been found.

Uzunmehmet is thought to have had a strong friendship with Atsu, and was involved in the forward’s move to Hatayaspor.

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A number of Atsu’s close friends and former teammates among them Mubarak Wakaso have also taken to social media and appear to be sending tribute to the former Black Stars player.

Atsu spent most of his career in England where he played for Newcastle United. He made 121 appearances, scoring eight goals, and 10 assists in the Magpies shirt.

He also played for FC Porto and Chelsea, AFC Bournemouth, and Everton among other clubs in Europe and Asia.

The 2015 African Cup of Nations player of the tournament, made his debut for Ghana in 2012 and went on to play 65 games scoring 9 goals for the Black stars.