Former Arsenal player Billy Vigar has died aged just 21 after suffering a ‘significant brain injury’ during a match.
Vigar was placed in an induced coma after an incident during Chichester City’s match against Wingate and Finchley on Saturday in the Isthmian League Premier Division.
The striker is believed to have collided with a concrete wall while trying to keep the ball in play. The match was abandoned after just 13 minutes.
His death was announced on Thursday evening by his club.
A statement from his family read: ‘After sustaining a significant brain injury last Saturday, Billy Vigar was put in an induced coma.
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‘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.
‘The responses to the original update show how much Billy was thought of and loved within the sport.
‘His family are devastated that this has happened whilst he was playing the sport that he loved.’
Arsenal pay tribute to ‘significant talent’ Vigar
Vigar joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of 14 and signed his first professional contract with the Gunners in July 2022.
He trained with the first-team aged just 16 and made appearances for the club’s Under-18 and Under-21 sides.
The Gunners described Vigar as a player with ‘significant talent’ in their own tribute to their former player.
‘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,’ their statement said.
‘As well as his significant talent, Billy will always be remembered for his love of the game, pride at representing our football club – he once called the day he was spotted by our scouts as ’the most Important of his life’ – and a character beloved by teammates and coaches alike.
‘Our deepest condolences go out to the Vigar family and his many friends at this extremely difficult time.’
Vigar had spells at Derby County and Eastbourne Borough before joining Hastings United on a free transfer in July 2024, signing for Chichester earlier this year.
In addition to his non-league playing career, Vigar had recently set up his own coaching programme, offering his services to help young players ‘who have experienced injuries and experienced setbacks’.
A statement from Chichester read: ‘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 (25th) morning.
‘The responses to the original update show how much Billy was thought of and loved within the sport. His family are devastated that this has happened whilst he was playing the sport that he loved.
‘Rest in peace Billy. Forever in the hearts of all at Chichester City Football Club.’
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