Looks like a perfect 10/10 day of the year 2024 will go down as a poignant memory in the soccer world. The beautiful game has lost yet another gem as George Baldock forever bid farewell just aged 31. Born in Buckingham, England, but having represented his heritage in Greece, the sudden passing of the Panathinaikos right-back has left everyone in disbelief as fans unite to mourn.

The news of his death was confirmed in a family statement, “We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family, we are in shock at this terrible loss.” Notably, Baldock was sadly found dead in the swimming pool of his house which is situated in Glyfada, southern Athens. It came while he was being searched for by his wife for several hours, as she couldn’t reach him.

This compelled her significant other to contact the owner of the house, who eventually found the former Sheffield United defender lifeless inside the pool. Police were quickly summoned by the homeowner to the scene. Despite feverous efforts, George was unable to be resuscitated, and medical emergency units confirmed his death, according to various news agencies citing a police official.

An official statement from the Greek police is anticipated soon, but sources within the department indicate that there are no signs of foul play. The actual cause of death will be determined through an autopsy in the next few days, after which his family will proceed with funeral procedures.

Though his roots can be traced back to Greece, Baldock took advantage of being an England-born and kickstarted his career at MK Dons U18 in 2009. Beyond making 125 appearances for his boyhood club, the wing-back has enjoyed several loan spells throughout the years across various lower-division leagues. Aside from cherishing his time at clubs including Northampton, Oxford United, and Tamworth FC, George also featured for Iceland-based side ÍBV Vestmannaeyjar.

His longest stint came during his time with Sheffield United. Having arrived in 2017 on a permanent deal, Baldock made 219 appearances, notching 6 goals and 16 assists for the Blades. After a remarkable seven years of service, he returned to his homeland to play for Panathinaikos earlier this summer. There, he sadly managed to play just 4 games for the Greek side.

On the international front, despite being England-born, he didn’t forget his core and represented Greece’s national team. Having received his first call-up in 2022, Baldock wore the national shirt just 12 times. Unfortunately, he’s no more as the soccer world is currently mourning his tragic death.

Soccer world unites to pay tributes to George Baldock

“We are shocked by the loss of our George,” his club Panathinaikos expressed in a statement. “The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”

Sheffield United also expressed their shock at the news, saying: “The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff and team-mates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him.”

The rest of the condolences were from ardent fans:-

Everyone knew the defender had some good years left to play and then enjoy retirement with his family and loved ones. Even if he left the world early, he won’t be forgotten easily by his beloved fans who knew what a remarkable player he was and the kind of contribution he made for all the clubs he played:

“He’ll be remembered forever. 🕊️🇬🇷”

Former English player Adebayo Akinfenwa, who had an opportunity to share a locker room with Baldock at Northampton, also expressed his remorse over the sudden death of his former teammate. We get a sense from the message that Akinfenwa surely made some great memories with Baldock:

“RIP George 💔🕊 wow tomorrow really isn’t promised 🙏🏿🙏🏿”

As news of Baldock’s passing emerged, Greece is preparing for its UEFA Nations League match against England. Although he was not selected for this month’s international window, the Greek Football Federation has confirmed that they have requested UEFA to permit players to wear black armbands in their next two matches in memory of his sudden death, a tribute that resonates with all the Greek fans:

“We are with you our Greek brothers 🇬🇷 we share your pain. 🇹🇷 🇬🇷”

It was literally just four days ago that Baldock laced his boots, and played for Panathinaikos during a Super League Greece game against Olympiacos before being substituted in the 75th minute. But who would have thought that it would be the last time we’d get to see him kick the ball?

“Another legend died today 🕊️☘️”

It is indeed, a sad today in the history of the beautiful game, as it lost a player that still had a lot to offer on the soccer pitch. Rest in peace, George Baldock.