Former Arsenal academy striker Billy Vigar has tragically died at the age of 21 after suffering a ‘significant brain injury’ while playing for lower division side Chichester City.
Vigar collapsed during Saturday’s Isthmian League Premier Division match against Wingate and Finchley and was immediately placed into an induced coma.
In a statement, his family revealed: “After sustaining a significant brain injury last Saturday, Billy Vigar was put in an induced coma. On Tuesday he needed an operation to aid any chances of recovery. Although this helped, the injury proved too much for him and he passed away on Thursday morning.”
SPORTSDAILYFEED confirms that the news has sent shockwaves through the football community, with tributes pouring in from both current and former teammates, coaches, and fans.
Arsenal also paid tribute in a heartfelt statement: “Everyone at Arsenal Football Club is deeply sorry to hear of the tragic passing of Chichester City forward and former Arsenal academy player, Billy Vigar. Billy joined our academy on schoolboy terms aged 14, after being scouted at his hometown club Hove Rivervale FC and excelled as a striker at Hale End, scoring 17 goals in his debut season.”
The club detailed his rise through the ranks, earning a scholarship in 2020, signing professional terms after the 2021/22 season, and representing Arsenal in the PL2 and EFL Trophy. Despite injury setbacks, Vigar’s talent and determination stood out.
He later enjoyed loan spells at Derby County and Eastbourne Borough before returning to the south coast, signing with Hastings United, and eventually joining Chichester City just last month.
Beyond football, Vigar will be remembered for his love of the game, humility, and character. Arsenal recalled that he once described being scouted by the club as “the most important day of his life.”
The club concluded: “Our deepest condolences go out to the Vigar family and his many friends at this extremely difficult time.”
