Greece has announced that their national football team will wear black armbands during their match against England in memory of George Baldock.
The defender was tragically found dead in the communal pool of his home after his wife was unable to reach him for several hours, as reported by local news outlets.
A Remarkable Career
George Baldock, who was only 31 years old, enjoyed a successful career in English football, racking up over 400 appearances.
He dedicated seven years to Sheffield United, where he was instrumental in earning two promotions to the Premier League.
This summer, he made a move to the Greek club Panathinaikos, but his time there was cut tragically short.
Despite his roots in Buckinghamshire, Baldock proudly represented Greece, earning 12 caps for the national team through his grandmother’s nationality.
In a show of respect, the Greek Football Association has planned a tribute ahead of their match with England on Thursday, which includes wearing armbands and observing a minute’s silence during their upcoming game against Ireland.
Heartfelt Tributes
The Hellenic Football Federation expressed their sorrow in a statement: “With deep sadness and pain, the National Team and the Hellenic Football Federation say goodbye to George Baldock.
There are no words to describe the human pain caused by the news of the untimely loss of one of our young people. The moment calls for silence.”
They extended their condolences to Baldock’s family and friends, recognizing the profound loss felt by the football community.
Before his tragic passing, Baldock had missed out on Greece’s latest squad due to an injury that kept him from playing in September.
He made his international debut in June 2022, contributing to a 1–0 victory against Northern Ireland.
Club Statements of Mourning
Panathinaikos, where Baldock had joined in May, also released a statement mourning his loss.
They expressed their shock and grief, emphasizing their support for Baldock’s family: “We are overwhelmed, we are shocked by the loss of our George. The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death.”
Baldock’s wife, concerned after failing to reach him, contacted the owner of their villa in Glyfada, a suburb of Athens.
Upon searching the property, Baldock was found in the pool, and it was reported that he had been in the water for several hours before emergency services were alerted.
A Lasting Legacy
Baldock’s impressive career included 219 appearances for Sheffield United, where he became a fan favorite, helping the club secure promotion to the Premier League twice.
In response to the tragic news, Sheffield United shared their sorrow on social media, stating, “Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock.”
They extended heartfelt condolences to his family and friends, acknowledging his popularity and contributions during his time at the club.
Northampton Town, where Baldock spent time on loan, expressed their sadness as well, saying, “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former loanee George Baldock at the tragically young age of 31.”
Similarly, his boyhood club, MK Dons, shared their devastation, recalling Baldock’s journey from their youth academy to the heights of the Premier League: “You will always be one of our own, George.”
Remembering a Friend
The official England football account also expressed their sorrow, stating, “We’re extremely saddened by the passing of George Baldock.
George was close to many of our players, and represented Greece – our opponents on Thursday night.
We’re thinking of George’s family, friends, and teammates at club and country at this difficult time.”
As the football world mourns the loss of George Baldock, his legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew him and through the memories he created on and off the pitch.