7 June 2026

Christian Atsu: I’m still hoping he’s alive – Chelsea’s ex-midfielder, Michael Essien on missing Ghanaian footballer

Wunmi Faniyi 11 February 2023 0

Former Chelsea midfielder, Michael Essien, has shared a heartfelt message to his former teammate Christian Atsu, saying he ‘is still hoping and praying’ the Ghana international is alive.

Atsu’s whereabouts remain unknown after the devastating earthquake in southern Turkey and northern Syria last Monday morning.

After Atsu’s current club, Hatayspor, revealed claims that the winger had been rescued were untrue, more than 17,000 people have been killed and thousands more injured after a catastrophic 7.8-magnitude earthquake, while millions have been left homeless.

Tremors from the deadly quake – which lasted about one minute and could be Turkey’s largest ever were felt as far away as Egypt, Lebanon and the island of Cyprus.

Speaking on the development, Essien, a former teammate with Atsu at Chelsea and the Black Stars of Ghana, put out a heartfelt message on his Instagram page to the 31-year-old.

Sharing a photo of himself and Atsu in a Chelsea kit, Essien said: “I am still hoping and praying my good friend Christian Atsu is still alive.

“My heart goes out to all the people of Turkey and Syria, especially families of the victims of this tragedy.

“Every life is important and we hope the government of Turkey and people around the world will continue to provide support to save as many people as possible. @armsaroundthechild.”

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