Former Premier League midfielder Akos Buzsaky clears up missing‑person report with Facebook statement

Former Hungary international and ex‑Premier League midfielder Akos Buzsaky has put an end to a week‑long police search after posting a detailed statement on Facebook confirming his whereabouts. The 44‑year‑old was listed as missing in Budapest on August 18, prompting local authorities to issue an appeal for information. In his message, Buzsaky explained that personal difficulties had forced him to step away from daily routines and that a misunderstanding led his mother to involve the police.

"Thank you very much for all the concern and thoughts you have shown me," Buzsaky wrote, adding that he immediately contacted the authorities once he became aware of the search. He clarified that he has been living and working abroad as a construction contractor, spending most of the past year in Greece.

His father, Akos Buzsaky Sr., corroborated the claim in an interview with Hungarian outlet Blikk, saying he was unaware of the police investigation and that his son “basically spends a lot of time in Greece, where he works as a construction contractor.” The senior Buzsaky added that the last conversation with his son took place the previous week while the former footballer was at home.

The former Premier League player, who featured for Plymouth, QPR, Portsmouth and Barnsley and made 18 top‑flight appearances, retired in 2015 after a stint with Ferencváros. Since hanging up his boots, he has struggled with personal issues, including a public discussion of addiction problems on a podcast.

Police officials in Budapest confirmed that the missing‑person alert has been lifted following the footballer’s clarification, and no further action is being taken. The case highlighted the challenges former athletes can face when transitioning to life after sport, especially when personal crises intersect with public scrutiny.

Buzsaky concluded his statement by wishing his supporters a “very nice day” and expressing gratitude for the outpouring of love he received. Fans and former teammates have taken to social media to echo his thanks and to wish him well in his ongoing construction work abroad.