Former MK Dons chairman pays tribute to George Baldock
Pete Winkelman remembers the former player’s dedication and impact after his sudden passing, with tributes still pouring in from across the world of football
Pete Winkelman, the long-serving chairman of MK Dons, is leading tributes to George Baldock, who began his footballing journey at the Buckinghamshire club.
The football world has been left in shock following his death at the age of 31.
The Greece international and former Sheffield United defender, who had signed for Panathinaikos in the summer, was found dead earlier this week. Greek police have stated that there is no evidence of criminal activity, confirming that a forensic pathologist found no signs of foul play at the scene.
Winkelman, has highlighted the deep connection Baldock had with MK Dons and the broader Milton Keynes community.
"Everyone is absolutely devastated," said Winkelman. "The news is just tragic. George was a part of the fabric of this club, as were his brothers Sam and James. We've known the family for so long, and it's difficult to comprehend this loss. It's just incredibly sad."
Baldock, who was born in Buckinghamshire, joined MK Dons at the age of eight and rose through the club’s academy. He went on to make over 100 appearances for the club before moving to Sheffield United, where he became a key figure during their rise to the Premier League. Reflecting on Baldock’s career, Winkelman praised the defender’s work ethic and determination.
“George worked incredibly hard to get to where he was,” he said. “I remember him as a tenacious midfielder in our academy, always buzzing around the pitch. But it was Carl Robinson who saw something special in him as a right-back, and from there, he just flourished. George became the epitome of what a professional footballer should be – focused, determined, and committed to constantly improving.”
Winkelman spoke fondly of Baldock’s time at the club and his influence on young players. “I've used George’s story so many times when speaking to academy parents,” he said. "He wasn’t just a great footballer, he was a role model for the next generation, showing them what’s possible with hard work and dedication."
After leaving MK Dons, Baldock’s career went from strength to strength. He joined Oxford United on loan, where he further developed as a player, before being signed by Sheffield United. At Bramall Lane, Baldock became a fan favourite, helping the club earn promotion to the Premier League and establishing himself as one of the top right-backs in English football. He made 109 Premier League appearances, the most any MK Dons' player has made in the Premier League.
Winkelman recalled the pride he felt watching Baldock’s career unfold: “George put Milton Keynes on the football map. To see a local lad go on to play at the highest level, representing not just MK Dons but also his country with Greece – that’s an incredible achievement. He was a credit to this club and this town.”
The impact of Baldock’s death has reverberated across the football community, with tributes coming in from many Premier League clubs and beyond. Panathinaikos, the Greek national team, and Sheffield United all expressed their deep sadness at his passing, while a period of silence was held before the Nations League match between England and Greece on Thursday night.
Winkelman also spoke of the personal grief being felt by those who knew Baldock. “I can’t imagine what his family are going through,” he said. “Annabelle, his partner, and Jackie and Baz, his parents – they must be absolutely heartbroken. George leaves behind a young son, and it's just a tragedy that he won’t be around to watch him grow up. But I hope George’s legacy will live on through him, and that he can be proud of everything his dad achieved."
The close-knit football community in Milton Keynes is also in mourning. "We all knew George, Sam, and their family," Winkelman added. "It’s hard to believe he won’t be coming back to the stadium. He’s been a part of this club for so long. We will be paying our respects on Saturday with a minute's silence before the game. I hope the fans come out in numbers and make some noise for him, because he deserves it."
Winkelman reflected on the emotion within the club since the news broke. “It’s unbelievable,” he said. “I’ve walked around the building and seen everyone completely on the floor. People can’t understand how this could happen to someone so young, with so much left to give. But while it’s devastating, we’ll also remember everything he gave to this club and to football in general. George achieved so much in such a short time. He really made his mark.”
Winkelman closed his tribute by recognising Baldock’s broader legacy. “George wasn’t just a talented player, he was a fantastic person,” he said. “He inspired so many young footballers and showed them what’s possible when you’re dedicated. His story will be told for years to come in our academy, and we will never forget the contribution he made to this football club. His passing is a massive loss, but we will honour him in every way we can."
MK Dons will pay tribute to Baldock with a minute's silence ahead of their match on Saturday, Both MK Dons and Port Vale will be wearing black armbands during the match. With further tributes expected from clubs across the leagues.
A book of condolences will be available in the MK Dons club shop today, with supporters encouraged to share their memories of George both on and off the pitch, as well as any messages of support for the Baldock family.