Asamoah Gyan, the former captain of the Ghana national football team, has announced his plans to organize a farewell game for his late teammate Christian Atsu, who died in the 2023 Turkey earthquake. Gyan said he wanted to raise funds for Atsu's family and honor his memory as a footballer and a friend.
Christian Atsu, who played as a winger for several clubs including Chelsea, Newcastle United and Hatayspor, was found dead under the rubble of his home in Antakya, Turkey, on 18 February 2023, almost two weeks after the quake that killed more than 40,000 people. ¹²³ Atsu was 31 years old and had three children with his wife Gifty. ⁴
Gyan, who retired from active football in June 2023, said he was devastated by the news of Atsu's death and wanted to do something to help his family and pay tribute to his legacy. He said he was planning to organize a game that would feature some of the current and former players of the Ghana national team, as well as some of Atsu's former teammates from different clubs. He said he hoped that the game would attract a lot of fans and sponsors who would donate money for Atsu's family.
"I'm planning to organize a game to raise money for the family. I believe when that day comes, everyone including the stars will come on board to support us so that we can raise funds for the family of Christian Atsu," Gyan said in an interview with Max Sports. ⁵
Gyan and Atsu played together for the Ghana national team for several years, representing their country at the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups and four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments. They also shared a close friendship off the pitch, as they often hung out together and supported each other's careers. Gyan said he considered Atsu as a brother and a mentor, and praised him for his talent, passion and humility.
"He was a great player and a great person. He always gave his best on the field and always had a smile on his face. He was very humble and respectful to everyone. He was like a brother to me and he taught me a lot of things. He was one of the best players I ever played with," Gyan said.
Gyan also expressed his condolences to Atsu's family and said he would always remember him in his prayers. He said he hoped that the farewell game would be a fitting tribute to Atsu's life and career, and that it would bring some comfort and support to his loved ones.
"I want to say sorry to his wife and children, his parents and siblings, and all his fans. It's a very sad situation and I can't imagine what they are going through. I pray that God will give them strength and peace. I also hope that the farewell game will be a success and that we will be able to honor him in a good way. He deserves it because he was a legend," Gyan said.
The date and venue of the farewell game have not been announced yet, but Gyan said he would reveal more details soon. He also urged all football lovers to join him in celebrating Atsu's life and legacy.
"I'm inviting everyone who loves football and who loves Christian Atsu to come and watch the game. It will be a special occasion and I'm sure it will be fun and emotional. Let's show our love and appreciation for him one last time," Gyan said.