Who was George Baldock? | The Sun

The world has been left in shock following the tragic death of former Premier League ace George Baldock.

Wembley is set to hold a minute’s silence for Baldock ahead of England’s game against Greece tonight.

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And players will wear black armbands in honor of George, who sadly died on Wednesday.

Here’s what SunSport knows about George Baldock.

Who was George Baldock?

Born on March 9, 1993, George Baldock was raised in Buckingham, England.

Baldock was of Greek descent through his grandmother and was eligible to represent Greece at international level as well as England.

He began his football career playing for the Milton Keynes Dons academy team, while his older brother Sam Baldock played for the senior team.

George made his first-team debut for MK Dons on 1 May 2010 in their League One clash with Brighton & Hove Albion, which ended in a 0–0 draw.

Baldock then joined Northampton on a month’s loan a year later, but on 13 June 2017, George made his breakthrough when he signed for newly promoted Championship side Sheffield United.

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And then in 2019, Baldock helped the Blades secure promotion to the Premier League after a 12-year absence.

The full-back represented Sheffield United for seven years, making over 219 appearances before his contract expired.

Then, on 29 May 2024, Baldock joined Greek side Panathinaikos on a three-year contract, making his debut in the Europa League third qualifying round at home to Ajax.

What happened to George Baldock?

George Baldock was tragically found dead in his swimming pool on Wednesday 9th October 2024.

The former Sheffield United defender was discovered at his home in Greece, where he played for Panathinaikos.

Greek media reported that his wife, who lives in England, was trying to locate him but was unable to contact him and began to worry.

She then informed the owner of the house in Glyfada, Athens, to check the property, where he was reportedly found dead in the pool.

Police are now investigating and were photographed outside his home late in the evening.

Family statement

Baldock’s family later released a statement following the devastating news.

It said: “We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family, we are in shock at this terrible loss. We ask that the media respects our privacy at this time.”

While the Panathinaikos club added: “We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George.

“Panathinaikos’ family mourns his untimely death. We stand with George Baldock’s family and loved ones.”

The Blades also paid tribute to Baldock in a statement which read: “Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player George Baldock.

“The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was hugely popular with fans, staff and team-mates who donned a red and white shirt alongside him.

“The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends.”