George Baldock, the former Sheffield United defender, has tragically passed away at the age of 31.
The England-born Greece international was discovered dead in the swimming pool at his home in Glyfada, southern Athens.
Initial findings from the coroner suggest he drowned, and police sources report no signs of foul play. His body was found around 10:30 PM local time on Wednesday.
Despite police efforts to revive him at the scene, he could not be resuscitated, and medical emergency personnel confirmed his death, according to a police official cited by Reuters.
Baldock recently joined Greek side Panathinaikos after a seven-year tenure with Sheffield United.
His family issued a statement expressing their shock at the unexpected loss, saying, “We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family, we are in shock at this terrible loss.”
Panathinaikos also released a statement mourning his untimely passing: “We are shocked by the loss of our George. The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”
Sheffield United shared their condolences as well, stating: “The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff, and teammates.
The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends.”
Baldock had made four appearances for Panathinaikos, including starting in their recent goalless draw with Olympiakos on Sunday.
He was capped 12 times by Greece, having qualified to play for the national team through his grandmother.
Although Baldock was not selected for the upcoming Nations League match against England, the Greece national team expressed their sorrow in a statement:
“With profound sadness, the national team and the Greek Football Federation bid farewell to George Baldock.
There are no words to describe the human pain caused by the unexpected loss of one of our own. This moment calls for silence. Our condolences to his family and his second family.”
Baldock began his career at MK Dons in 2009, where he made over 100 appearances. He also had loan spells with several clubs, including Northampton and Oxford United, before joining Sheffield United in 2017.
During his time with the club, he made 219 appearances and played a key role in their promotions to the Premier League in 2019 and 2023.
He was born in Buckingham but chose to represent Greece in May 2022, receiving his first call-up from manager Gus Poyet.
He made his debut the following month, helping Greece secure a 1-0 victory over Northern Ireland at Windsor Park in Belfast.
