Former Sheffield United Defender George Baldock Dies at 31

Former Sheffield United defender George Baldock has passed away at the age of 31, as reported by Reuters citing a police official. The England-born Greek international was discovered dead at his home in Glyfada, southern Athens. Emergency services responded to the scene, where attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful.

Baldock had recently joined Greek football club Panathinaikos during the summer transfer window after spending seven years with Sheffield United, also known as “the Blades.” In a statement, Baldock’s family expressed their shock and sadness at this sudden loss, as did his club, Panathinaikos, which mourned his untimely death.

Sheffield United echoed these sentiments, noting Baldock’s popularity among supporters, staff, and teammates during his tenure at Bramall Lane. Baldock had played 219 games for the club, contributing significantly to their promotion to the Premier League in both 2019 and 2023.

In addition to his club career, Baldock had represented Greece internationally, earning 12 caps since opting to play for the nation due to his Greek heritage. The Greece national team communicated their deep sorrow and plans to honor Baldock’s memory during their Nations League match against England on Thursday, for which he was not selected.

Baldock began his professional football career at MK Dons in 2009 and had loan spells at various clubs, including Northampton and Oxford United, before his move to Sheffield United in 2017. Throughout his career, he made a lasting impact in English football’s lower leagues and the Premier League.

The news of Baldock’s death has deeply affected the international football community. Tributes have poured in from fellow footballers and clubs across Europe. Former teammates, including Manchester United’s Harry Maguire and Dean Henderson, expressed their condolences on social media platforms.

The circumstances surrounding Baldock’s death remain under investigation, with an autopsy scheduled to establish the cause. Preliminary police reports suggest no foul play is suspected at this time.

Panathinaikos and the Greece national team have also turned their social media profiles to a blackened state as a mark of respect. The Greek Super League, along with Baldock’s former clubs, have extended their collective condolences to his family and friends.