Christian Atsu’s wife Marie-Claire Rupio and their children attended the Newcastle vs Liverpool game at St James Park on Saturday. The teams observed a minute of silence for Atsu before the kick-off.

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Former Premier League star Christian Atsu‘s body was found in Turkey on Saturday, 12 days after the region was struck by an earthquake, killing thousands.

“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,” Atsu’s agent Nana Sechere tweeted on Saturday.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers and support. I ask that whilst we make the necessary arrangements, that everyone would please respect the privacy of the family during this very difficult time.”

Atsu joined Hatayspor in September 2022 after playing for English Premier League clubs Everton, Chelsea and Newcastle United.

Newcastle paid tribute, saying: “A talented player and a special person, he will always be fondly remembered by our players, staff and supporters.”

Hatayspor tweeted, “We will not forget you, Atsu. Peace be upon you, beautiful person. There are no words to describe our sadness. Rest in peace.”
The 31-year-old Ghanaian footballer is survived by his wife, Marie-Claire Rupio, and their three children. He met Rupio in Portugal in 2012 when he was 20 years old. They soon tied the knot. The family moved to Newcastle when he started playing for Newcastle United.

Described Atsu as a “special person”, former Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez told Sky Sports, “He was a nice lad and always had a smile, I’m really sad for him and everyone who knew him.”