soccer earthquake Mar 27, 2022; Orlando, Florida, USA; United States forward Paul Arriola (7) kicks the ball against Panama in the second half during a FIFA World Cup Qualifier soccer match at Exploria Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports

Turkey was hit by a major 7.8 earthquake that has devastated that country, with thousands dead and thousands missing.

One of those missing is former Premier League star Christian Atsu. Atsu, who played for Chelsea and Newcastle United, is believed to be buried in the rubble according to TMZ Sports.

Atsu has not been seen or heard from since the earthquake. Atsu, a 31-year-old winger for the Turkish club Hatayspor, signed with the club back in September. He had just played in one game for them hours before the earthquake on Sunday night, scoring a goal.

His former teams have sent out their thoughts and prayers to the missing star through statements.

Newcastle tweeted that they’re “praying for some positive news” after the devastating earthquake. The Ghana Football Association also added in a tweet of its own, “Our thoughts and prayers are with Christian Atsu and our brothers and sisters in Turkey and Syria. We remain hopeful for positive news.”

Atsu, born in Ghana, has been playing soccer since he was 17 years old. He started his career with Porto for two years before playing for other clubs. He would eventually move on to the Premier League to play for Newcastle United for five years as a midfielder.

{TMZ Sports}

About Stacey Mickles

Stacey is a 1995 graduate of the University of Alabama who has previously worked for other publications such as Sportskeeda and Saturday Down South.