Remembering Christian Atsu: A Career of Talent, Faith and Generosity
- Christian Atsu was a Ghanaian star winger whose dazzling runs and lethal left foot etched unforgettable memories in football history
- Atsu transitioned from humble beginnings to gracing the world’s grandest football stages with Chelsea, Newcastle, and the Black Stars
- His support for orphanages, paying school fees, and even helping secure the release of prisoners jailed for minor offences is well documented
Christian Atsu’s name will forever hold a special place in Ghanaian football and beyond, and nearly three years following his heartbreaking passing, his football legacy and charitable deeds are remembered.
Born on January 10, 1992, in Ada Foah, the winger rose from humble beginnings to grace the biggest stages of European football and the international scene with the Black Stars.
Source: Getty Images
Christian Atsu's football career
Atsu’s journey began at the Feyenoord Academy in Ghana before he moved to FC Porto in Portugal. There, he earned his first taste of top-level football, winning the Primeira Liga title. To gain more experience, he spent a loan spell at Rio Ave, where his pace and flair caught wider attention.
In 2013, Chelsea secured his signature, but like many young players at Stamford Bridge, he was sent on several loans, as cited by the Guardian.
His career then took him through Vitesse Arnhem, Everton, Bournemouth, and Málaga, where he showed glimpses of the talent that made him such a promising prospect.
However, the most stable and memorable chapter of his career came with Newcastle United. According to ESPN, Atsu joined the Magpies in 2016, initially on loan, before sealing a permanent move.
Source: Getty Images
His contributions were vital in helping Newcastle win the EFL Championship in the 2016/17 season, securing promotion back to the Premier League.
On the international stage, the rapid winger made his Ghana debut in 2012 and went on to represent the Black Stars at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
His finest moment arrived at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, where his dazzling performances earned him both the Player of the Tournament and the Goal of the Tournament awards as Ghana finished runners-up, as noted by Mimi Fawaz.
Christian Atsu's philanthropy and lasting legacy
Away from football, Christian Atsu was deeply admired for his character as he used his platform to make a difference in his community.
His support for orphanages, paying school fees, and even helping secure the release of prisoners jailed for minor offences are well documented.
As a man of strong Christian faith, the ex-Chelsea and FC Porto winger often described his charitable acts as his calling.
Turkey earthquake 2023: Christian Atsu's tragic death
Tragically, Atsu’s life was cut short in February 2023, when he died in the devastating earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria, sending sending shockwaves across the global football familiy.
His funeral in Ghana, attended by high-profile government officials, current anf ex-footballers, was marked by deep mourning and celebration of a life that touched many.
Two years and nearly eight months after his tragic passing, Christian Atsu is fondly remembered for his dazzling runs, lethal left foot, boundless generosity, humility, and unwavering faith.
Continue to rest in peace, champion.
Jordan Ayew hails Christian Atsu
In an earlier report by YEN.com.gh, Jordan Ayew paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Christian Atsu, describing him as the “best player” he had ever played alongside.
The Leicester City forward’s emotional words reflected the deep respect and admiration Atsu commanded among his Black Stars teammates, both on and off the pitch.
Source: YEN.com.gh
