After two weeks of research, the terrible news had been confirmed. Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu was found dead on February 18. Striker of the Hatay club, based in Antakya, in the Turkish first division, he lived near the epicenter of the violent earthquake which struck the country on February 6. His body was found at his home. To honor him, Ghana held a state funeral on Friday in Accra, the country’s capital.
The ceremony was chaired by the Head of State, Nana Akufo-Addo. The player’s family and former teammates were present. They wore a jersey bearing his likeness. Many fans also made the trip, they were able to gather in front of his coffin.
A lot of emotions
The widow of Christian Atsu spoke during the ceremony. “You didn’t leave alone, a part of me accompanied you. Your love continues to guide me. (…) You seemed immortal. Your smile, your love, I see you in the smile of our children, ”said Marie-Claire Rupio, very moved.
The Ghanaian winger had been playing in Turkey since this summer. Previously, he had notably played for FC Porto, Chelsea, Everton and Newcastle. Christian Atsu also played for the national team. He wore the Ghana jersey 65 times. In 2015, the striker was even voted best player in the African Cup of Nations (CAN). He will be buried in his home town of Ada.