“Terrible news” - Football World pays tribute as ex-Premier League star George Baldock dies aged 31

The footballing world has paid their respects to former Premier League star George Baldock, who died on Wednesday (October 9). The England-born defender was reportedly found dead at his home in Greece.

Baldock played for Sheffield United for seven years. The Greece international made 219 appearances for the Blades, contributing six goals and 16 assists. He departed Sheffield in the summer and joined Greek outfit Panathinaikos FC.

According to reports, Baldock was found dead in the swimming pool of his house located in the south of Athens (via GOAL). The 31-year-old's death has certainly impacted many in the footballing world as they took to social media to pay tribute.

Sheffield United posted on their official X account:

"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 extremely popular with supporters, staff and team-mates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him. The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends."

Arsenal icon Paul Merson wrote on X:

"Terrible news! RIP George Baldock ❤️🙏🏼"

Meanwhile, Manchester United star Harry Maguire posted a picture of Baldock on Instagram with the caption:

"RIP."

Brighton & Hove Albion wrote on X:

"We are shocked to learn of the passing of George Baldock at the age of 31. Our love and condolences are with George’s brother and our colleague Sam, and his family and friends at this time."

EFL took to X to write:

"The EFL is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of George Baldock, a player who made a lasting impact with spells across the League at Sheffield United, Oxford United, Northampton Town and MK Dons. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and former colleagues."

England Football wrote on X:

"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 team-mates at club and country at this difficult time."

Journalist Fabrizio Romano wrote on X:

"Terrible, tragic news as George Baldock has sadly passed away aged 31. Baldock was playing for Panathinaikos in Greece after several years in England. Rest in peace, George."

George Baldock's family releases statement after 31-year-old's death

George Baldock's family has released a statement after the former Premier League star died on Wednesday (October 9).

According to reports, Baldock's wife was unable to contact the 31-year-old and had informed the owner of the villa in which they resided. They subsequently found Baldock in the swimming pool and alerted the authorities, who tried to resuscitate him. However, their attempt was in vain as Baldock was confirmed dead. The cause of death is yet to be revealed.

His family's statement read (via The Mirror):

"We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss. We ask please that the media respect our privacy at this time."

Baldock's current club Panathinaikos have also released a statement that read:

"We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George. The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”

Baldock registered four appearances for Panathinaikos this season. He last played for the Greek outfit in the Super League against Olympiacos on Sunday (October 6).