Christian Atsu: All You Need To Know About Turkey Earthquake Trapping Ghana Star

• Christian Atsu is said to be missing after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the city of Nurdagi in Turkey
• More than 2300 people have been reported dead, while thousands are still missing under the rubble which also affected some parts of Syria
• Amid fears and uncertainty, the football world has continued to pray for the attacking midfielder

Turkey witnessed their worst disaster in 84 years after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the city of Nurdagi, in the country’s Gaziantep province.

The death toll from the effect of the disaster has left at least, 2300 dead and thousands missing, including Ghanaian international Christian Atsu.

The 31-year-old Ghanaian international currently plays for Hatayspor, after he joined in the summer of 2022 on a one-year deal.

Hatayaspor confirm signing Christian Atsu

The former Chelsea and Newcastle United star moved to Turkey after a short spell with Saudi Super League side Al-Raed. Hatayaspor said in a statement:

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"Christian Atsu is a new player for Hatayspor. We have signed a one-year contract with an option to extend another year.

"Atsu, an experienced right and left winger, has played for several clubs in including Everton, Newcastle United, Chelsea, FC Porto and Malaga. We welcome Christian Atsu and wish him endless success with our maroon and white jersey."

Monday’s earthquake reached a depth of 24.1 kilometres (14.9 miles) according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), BBC reports.

The attacking winger is feared to be among those trapped under the rubble of the club's quarters in Antakya.

The frightening moment earthquake occurred

The incident was reported to have started at about 04:17 local time (01:17 GMT) at a depth of 17.9 km (11 miles), near the city of Gaziantep.

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According to Eurosport, survivors said there were tremors for over 120 seconds; and then twelve hours later there was a second quake.

This time, Turkey's Elbistan district of Kahramanmaras province was hit by a magnitude of 7.5.

Melisa Salman, who is a resident of Kahramanmaras said she was used to tremors, but Monday’s experience was different. He said:

"We thought it was the apocalypse."

Prayers for Christian Atsu

The world, particularly Ghana nationals, have continued to express concerns over the status of their attacking midfielder.

Atsu broke into the national team in 2012 and has featured in 69 matches for the Black Stars, scoring nine goals.

Former president of Ghana John Mahama wrote:

“Let's continue to pray for our brother, Christian Atsu, and his club director. The city of Hayat is in the region affected by the earthquake. Let's continue to pray that God spares their lives.”

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Ghana journalist Abeiku Santana tweeted:

“God have mercy on Christian Atsu and Turkey.”

Sika Bebree added:

“Footballer Christian Atsu is reportedly among those trapped under rubble after a huge earthquake hit Turkey. God help him.”

Famous journalist Saddick Adams later provided an update:

“I’m told Christian Atsu was on the 9th floor of the collapsed building with 9 other players and 2 officials. 3 players and one official have been rescued. Officials of the club are at the site as search continues. Our brother will be out safe. Insha Allah. Trust.”

Football world mourns with Turkey, Syria

Sports Brief earlier reported that the football caucus worldwide has been struck with a piece of heartbreaking news from Turkey and Syria.

Turkey and its surrounding countries suffered one of the strongest earthquakes to hit the region in a century at around 4 a.m. on Monday.

The unfortunate news has left the football community in pain with many trooping to social media to offer their prayers and support.