Former Arsenal player Billy Vigar has died at the age of 21 after suffering a significant brain injury during a match for Chichester City. The tragic incident occurred last Saturday during a non-league clash against Wingate & Finchley.
Vigar sustained the fatal head injury when his head collided with a concrete wall while trying to stop the ball from going out of play. The match was immediately stopped and emergency services arrived quickly at the scene.
Family confirms tragic death
Chichester City confirmed on Thursday evening that Vigar had passed away by sharing a statement from the player's family. The family statement 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 family added: "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 academy background
The young footballer joined Arsenal at the age of 14 in 2017 and signed his first professional contract at the Emirates in July 2022. Although he never made a senior appearance for the Gunners, Vigar was a regular player in their Under-18s and Premier League 2 teams.
In the 2021/22 U18s Premier League campaign, he scored four goals and provided two assists for Arsenal's youth side. He remained part of the club's U21 setup until last season before moving to Hastings United on a free transfer.
Football community tributes
The Football Association acknowledged his death, stating: "We are devastated to hear that Billy Vigar has passed away. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, loved ones, and everyone at Chichester City FC at this incredibly difficult time."
According to Daily Mail reports, Derby County paid tribute to Vigar, noting his loan spell during the second half of the 2022/23 season where he made several U21 appearances. Eastbourne Borough also honoured the young player, highlighting his 32 appearances during a loan spell in the 2023/24 season.
Recent career moves
Vigar had joined Chichester City during the summer transfer window after his stint at Hastings United. The tragic incident has prompted an outpouring of support from across the football community and highlighted the risks faced by players in non-league football.
Sources used: "Mirror", "Daily Star", "Daily Mail", "Metro" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
