AceShowbiz - Soccer fans are mourning the loss of George Baldock, who was found dead in his swimming pool at just 31 years old. The English-born defender, who recently played for Panathinaikos in Greece, leaves behind a legacy in both British and Greek soccer.

On Wednesday, October 9, Baldock was discovered unresponsive in the swimming pool of his home located in Glyfada, Athens. The tragic news broke through multiple sources, with the BBC reporting that his body was found at approximately 10:30 p.m. local time. Despite efforts by police to revive him using cardiopulmonary resuscitation, Baldock could not be revived.

Authorities have conducted a thorough investigation, and both Greece's Ministry of Citizen Protection and local police have ruled out any criminal activity or signs of foul play. A forensic pathologist was called to examine the body, supporting the initial suggestion that Baldock likely died from drowning.

George Baldock's sudden death has left his family in shock. "We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss," they stated. Tributes have poured in, acknowledging his contributions and the impact he made during his career.

Baldock started his professional career with MK Dons and went on to play for Oxford United and Northampton Town. He became a well-loved figure at Sheffield United, where he played for seven years before moving to Panathinaikos in May 2023. The Greek club signed him on a three-year contract, and he had already represented the Greek national team 12 times since his debut in 2022.

Baldock's former clubs have offered their condolences. "Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock," the club wrote on X. "He was extremely popular with supporters, staff and teammates."

Similarly, Panathinaikos expressed their grief, "We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George. Panathinaikos' family mourns his unexpected loss. We stand with the family and relatives of George Baldock."

Seemingly anticipating a promising future, Baldock's final Instagram post, titled "New beginnings," depicted him preparing to join Panathinaikos. The image of him in the team's logo-bearing shirt alongside a video of his health check showcased a promising chapter in his career that was tragically cut short.

In honor of George Baldock, a period of silence will be observed before Thursday night's Nations League match at Wembley, and players will don black armbands. Greek fans will also hold a moment of silence before their match against the Republic of Ireland on Sunday, October 13.