Christian Atsu pulled from rubble after Turkey earthquake

Responders found Ghana international Christian Atsu alive and rescued him from rubble after a massive earthquake in Turkey. The former Chelsea and Newcastle winger now plays with Hatayspor.

Officials reported Atsu missing after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck Turkey and parts of Syria on Monday. Thousands of buildings in the two countries collapsed, killing over 5,000 people and leaving tens of thousands injured. Freezing winter conditions in the area have also compounded search and rescue missions. It is one of the strongest quakes to hit the region in the last 100 years.

Christian Atsu rescued after earthquake

Nevertheless, the Ghana Football Association recently revealed some good news on Twitter. “Update: We’ve received some positive news. Christian Atsu has been successfully rescued from the rubble of the collapsed building and is receiving treatment,” the statement read. “Let’s continue to pray for Christian.”

Hayatspor’s vice president Mustafa Ozat also confirmed the player’s rescue. However, he also announced that the club’s sporting director is still missing. “Christian Atsu was removed from the wreckage with injuries,” Ozat told outlet Radyo Gol. “Unfortunately, our sporting director Taner Savut is still under the rubble. Hatay was deeply affected. We are coming towards the end of the most dangerous hours.”

Star striker helps disaster relief efforts

Fenerbahce forward Enner Valencia has also traveled to the affected area to offer help in the earthquake aftermath. The Ecuador international was in a local store purchasing air mattresses and tents to help victims of the tragedy. He also tweeted phone numbers to helplines and rescue organizations in cities affected by the quake.

Valencia has lived in Turkey since transferring to Fenerbahce from Mexican club Tigres in the summer of 2020. The 33-year-old striker is currently the Super Lig’s top goalscorer with 20 goals in just 18 league matches.

PHOTO: IMAGO / PA Images