Christian Atsu ‘injured’ but safe after being pulled from rubble, his manager confirms

On Feb 7, 2023

Ex-Chelsea and Newcastle star Christian Atsu is injured but safe after being pulled from the rubble of a collapsed building, his manager has confirmed.

The 31-year-old was caught up in the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria on Monday morning which has resulted in the deaths of over three thousand people – with experts fearing the death toll could rise to 10,000.

Hours later it emerged that Atsu was missing alongside Hatayspor sporting director Taner Savut – whose fate is still unknown – though Hatayspor manager Mustafa Özat has now confirmed that Atsu has been pulled from the wreckage, albeit with a reported foot injury.

Speaking to Radyo Gol, Ozat said: “Christian Atsu was taken out with injuries. Our sporting director, Taner Savut, is unfortunately still under the rubble.”

It’s understood the Ghana international, who has a wife and three children, has been taken to hospital where his injuries are being treated.

Atsu scored a dramatic 97th-minute winner for Hatayspor against Kasimpasa on Sunday – just a few hours before the earthquake hit, and was held aloft by his adoring team-mates.

Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced following the disaster
(Image: Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

Christian Atsu was on Chelsea’s books for four years but never played for the senior side
(Image: GETTY)

The winger joined Chelsea from Porto in 2013, before having loan stints at Everton, Bournemouth and Newcastle. He made his Newcastle move permanent after the team won promotion back to the Premier League in 2017.

After four years at St James’ Park, Atsu joined Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Raed, before making the switch to Hatayspor last year.