Despite being unable to attend Atsu’s funeral on Friday due to club commitments, the Genk midfielder shared an emotional tribute expressing his struggle to come to terms with Atsu’s sudden death.
Atsu tragically lost his life in February during the massive earthquake that hit Turkey. He was trapped under rubble and was found lifeless a week later. Wakaso and Atsu shared a close bond, and their friendship was well-known, making Wakaso one of the individuals many thought of when they heard the sad news.
In his tribute, Wakaso expressed his deep sorrow, saying, “It’s so difficult for me to express in words how I am feeling. Since hearing about the earthquake on 6th February, I had hoped that you were still alive. I never believed that this hope would turn into sadness.”
“You were my everyday guy, my friend, my brother. We played together, we laughed together, and we ate together. You were someone who I trusted in everything because in a good or bad situation you were always there for me. I have been here just looking at our pictures, reading our messages, and watching our videos. All I have now are memories which I will cherish forever. Rest in perfect peace, Love from your brother Wakaso Mubarak.”
Atsu was only 31 years old and is survived by his wife Marie-Claire Rupio and children.