Gone but never forgotten…
We pay tribute to supporters of the Football Black List that are sadly no longer with us.
Beyond his accomplishments on the pitch, Atsu’s legacy is defined by his extensive charity work and numerous acts of kindness that touched countless lives. His benevolence, spanning from West Africa to Western Europe and eventually the Middle East, has left a lasting positive impact on many.
Atsu, a modest and humble character, took great pride in the achievements of his wife, the German-born author Marie-Claire Rupio. Simultaneously, he earned widespread recognition as a household name across Africa after being awarded the Player of the Tournament at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea.
Christian Atsu passed away in the aftermath of a tragic earthquake that struck Türkiye and Syria. On Sunday, February 5, 2023, just hours before the catastrophic event unfolded, Atsu delivered a poignant last-minute winner for Hatayspor, in their home game against Turkish Super Lig rivals Kasımpaşa.
We extend our deepest condolences to all those who lost their lives during the 2023 Türkiye and Syria earthquakes. Christian Atsu’s contributions to the world of football and his impact beyond the pitch will be forever remembered.
Marvin was a passionate visionary with real purpose, who cared immensely about his community, sharing positivity to those around him. The former striker turned entrepreneur and campaigner, created ties with big names across the world of sport and culture through his clothing range Fresh Ego Kid. An FBL award recipient for his commercial work just a year before his untimely passing, Marvin was committed to his actions in bringing people together. He regularly supported anti-discrimantion campaigns and was an advocate of mental health awareness. Fresh Ego FC, a charity football team, was launched, using their platform to raise money for good causes, participating in charity matches involving celebrities and football stars.
Floyd was loved and cherished by his colleagues at the Premier League. He was an absolute delight and a very special human being.
Floyd worked for the Premier League for 15 years in a variety of roles
Outside of work, he spent much of his time caring for his elderly mother and training friends and colleagues in self-defence and boxing, always free of charge
He became a father figure to many young members of staff at the Premier League
As the official security officer for the offices, if there was ever a threat, he was always there to protect his colleagues – the only time he was not to be seen smiling!
Jermaine epitomised what a grassroots football leader and London FA Council Member should be. An experienced football man, selfless who loved the game and people who shared his passion for football. He was always willing to give up his own time to make a difference in grassroots football. London FA’s core values are Collaboration, Leadership, Integrity, Professionalism and Performance, all of which Jermaine personified for his League, clubs, teams, players, referees, volunteers, spectators and everyone he came into contact with. He was hugely valuable and active in the arena of grassroots football being synonymous with his association to the iconic Hackney Marshes.
He made a significant impact as a;