The world of football is in shock after the sudden death of George Baldock, a 31-year-old defender for Panathinaikos and the Greece national team.
Baldock was found dead on Wednesday evening at his home in Glyfada, a suburb in southern Athens. His body was discovered in his swimming pool.
Baldock’s family released a statement expressing their sadness: “We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss.”
Football fans and clubs across Greece, even those who are usually rivals, united in mourning the loss of a player who was well-liked.
Baldock had recently played for Panathinaikos in a 0-0 draw against Olympiacos last Sunday, where he played for 75 minutes.
According to Greek state TV, ERT, a bottle of vodka was found near the pool. The police were alerted after Baldock’s wife, who was abroad, could not reach him by phone. The police and ambulance arrived at the scene, and a coroner was called. The first investigation found no signs of foul play or forced entry into the home.
Baldock, born in England, played for Sheffield United in the Premier League for seven years before joining Panathinaikos in May.
He started playing for Greece in 2022, qualifying to represent the country through his father.
Although Baldock had earned 12 caps for Greece, he was not part of the squad for the Nations League match against England due to an injury.
Tributes have poured in from clubs and players around the world. Sheffield United, Baldock’s former club, expressed deep sadness, sharing a black-and-white image of him with the words, “RIP George Baldock.”
Other clubs like Northampton and MK Dons, where Baldock played earlier in his career, also shared their condolences.
The Greek football federation announced that the national team will wear black armbands in Baldock’s honour during their next match.
