Newcastle supporters are holding a fundraising in memory of the late Christian Atsu in an effort to complete the task of constructing a new school in Ghana.
In order to assist with the construction of the new school, which was already under way, Atsu served as an ambassador for the nonprofit organization Arms Around the Child. With more than £600 already donated, Talk of Tyneside is now requesting support from supporters for their fundraiser to help finish what he started in his native Ghana.
Christian Atsu was a beloved character in Tyneside, as evidenced by the number of tributes Newcastle United Football Club and its supporters have paid to him, according to Talk of Tyneside. "Raising money for a fantastic charity that he worked with feels like the perfect way to do so," the club said after his death. "Following his passing, we were hoping to find a way to give supporters a way to show their appreciation for his service to the club."
"Christian touched the lives of so many people with his charitable work, and we are determined to keep his memory alive by raising funds to complete the school buildings in Senya Beraku — and help the children he loved so much," said Ellie Milner of Arms Around The Child. Atsu had been missing for 12 days until his agent Murat Uzunmehmet declared him dead. Atsu spent four years of his career at Newcastle United, who declared he would be "fondly remembered" by all of the team members.
They posted on social media, "We are deeply heartbroken to discover that Christian Atsu tragically lost his life in Turkey's horrific earthquakes. Our players, staff, and supporters will always remember him as a special person and a talented athlete. Peace be with you, Christian.