Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has expressed his deep shock and sadness over the tragic death of former player George Baldock. The football community was left reeling on Wednesday after it was reported that Baldock, 31, drowned while swimming in his pool at his home in Athens.
Baldock had recently transferred to Panathinaikos in the last summer transfer window, ending a seven-year tenure with Sheffield United. Wilder, who is currently in his second spell as the Blades’ manager, was closely acquainted with Baldock, having managed him during his first term in charge.
“I’m just stunned really,” Wilder said in a video shared on Sheffield United’s official X account. “I think we’re getting to that age where we’re attending more and more funerals. Losing people you love and respect is always difficult, but this feels different for everyone involved.”
Known affectionately as ‘Starman’ by Sheffield United fans, Baldock played a key role in the club’s promotion to the Premier League in 2019 and contributed to their impressive ninth-place finish in the top flight the following season.
“He wasn’t one to seek the limelight,” Wilder noted. “But George was a huge personality, a driving force, and a key figure in our culture. He embodied everything we stood for both on and off the pitch.”
Wilder reflected on their relationship, saying, “We had our disagreements, but we were all working toward the same goals. It’s heartbreaking to think about the families that have lost a son and the players who have lost a brother. Those teammates who battled alongside George knew he faced every challenge head-on. He was an absolute pleasure to manage and always gave his all, which is what every Sheffield United fan desires.