Former Legon Cities goalkeeper William Essu has tragically passed away at the University of Cape Coast Hospital in the Central Region at the age of 22.
Essu died on Saturday evening around after being rushed to the hospital on Friday. Despite undergoing a series of tests upon his arrival, doctors were unable to determine the cause of his illness. He was subsequently transferred to the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital for further evaluation, but the results were inconclusive.
Essu, who seemed to be improving earlier gave up the ghost later in the evening as confirmed by the doctors.
Essu was a member of Ghana’s U-23 team that qualified for the AFCON in Morocco last year. Amid his illness, he had appealed to the Ministry of Youth and Sports to pay his outstanding bonuses to help cover his medical expenses. Sadly, he passed away without receiving the funds owed to him for his service to the country.
This tragedy marks the second time in less than a year that Legon Cities has lost a goalkeeper. In September 2023, their goalkeeper Sylvester Sackey also passed away.
William Essu appealed and received support nine months ago
William Essu had been sick for a while and his condition became critical in Sepetemer 2023. This prompted many to donate due to the lack of funds and the toll medical expenses took on him.
The Professional Footballers Association of Ghana (PFAG) showed support to the ailing goalkeeper by paying a visit and assuring him of their care and support.
The Ghana Football Association Foundation (GFA) donated an amount of GHC 10,000 to support the goalkeeper. In addition his Black Meteors teammates contributed up to GHC 13,000 as well.
Essu’s untimely death has shocked the football community, highlighting the challenges faced by players and the urgent need for support systems for ailing athletes.
