By Sport Analyst
Emmanuel Afonja
The football community is mourning the loss of former Arsenal academy striker, Billy Vigar, who tragically passed away at the age of 21 following a severe head injury sustained during a match.
Vigar, who was playing for Chichester City in the Isthmian League Premier Division, collapsed after a collision in the opening minutes of last Saturday’s fixture against Wingate & Finchley. The game was abandoned after just 13 minutes, and the young forward was rushed to hospital, where he was placed in an induced coma.
Despite undergoing emergency surgery on Tuesday in hopes of aiding his recovery, Vigar’s injuries proved fatal, and he sadly passed away on the morning of Thursday, September 25.
In a heartfelt statement, his family said:
“After sustaining a significant brain injury, Billy was put in an induced coma. Although surgery was carried out to give him the best chance, the injury proved too much, and he passed away. The outpouring of support shows how much Billy was loved within the sport. His family are devastated that this tragedy happened while he was doing what he loved most.”
Chichester City also confirmed the news with deep sorrow, requesting privacy for the family during this painful time.
Vigar’s football journey began when he joined Arsenal’s academy at 14, after being scouted from his hometown club, Hove Rivervale FC. He signed his first professional contract with Arsenal in 2022, later gaining experience on loan spells at Derby and Eastbourne Borough, before moving to Hastings United in 2024. He joined Chichester City ahead of the current season.
Arsenal Football Club paid tribute to their former academy player:
“We are deeply saddened to learn of Billy’s passing. He will be remembered not only for his goalscoring talent but also for his infectious passion for football and the pride he had in wearing the Arsenal shirt. Our heartfelt condolences go to his family, teammates, and friends.”
Billy Vigar’s untimely death leaves a deep void in the hearts of his loved ones and the wider football family, who remember him as a gifted young striker with a bright future and a genuine love for the game.
