AfriPulse
Former Arsenal player, Billy Vigar has tragically died at the age of 21.
Chichester City forward and former Arsenal player, Billy Vigar has died at the age of 21 following a severe brain injury sustained during a match last Saturday.
The incident occurred in the Isthmian League fixture against Wingate & Finchley, which was called off just 13 minutes after kickoff.
In a statement, Chichester confirmed, “After suffering a major brain injury last weekend, Billy was placed in an induced coma. He underwent surgery on Tuesday to give him the best chance of recovery, but sadly, despite these efforts, the injury proved too severe and he passed away on Thursday morning.”
The club, reflecting on the outpouring of support earlier in the week, added, “The messages we received after our first update showed the deep respect and affection people had for Billy. His family are heartbroken that this tragedy happened while he was playing the sport he loved so much.”
Vigar began his journey with Arsenal’s academy in December 2017 at the age of 14, signing his first professional deal in July 2022.
During his time with the Gunners, he had loan spells at Derby County, where he featured for the under-21s, and later at Eastbourne Borough.
He joined Hastings United on a free transfer in the summer of 2024 before moving to Chichester ahead of the current campaign. The club has since postponed Saturday’s home game against Lewes.
Arsenal also paid tribute to their former player, describing him as “quick, powerful and fiercely determined.”
In their statement, the club recalled how Vigar was scouted from Hove Rivervale FC and made an immediate impact at Hale End, scoring 17 goals in his first season.
He earned a scholarship in 2020, joining a cohort that included Charles Sagoe Jr, Omari Hutchinson, Charlie Patino, and Brook Norton-Cuffy.
Vigar went on to compete in both the PL2 and the EFL Trophy, impressing with his adaptability by covering various attacking roles and even stepping in defensively when required.
Arsenal wrote, “Billy will always be remembered for his passion for football, his pride in wearing our badge, and his infectious personality. He once described the day he was discovered by our scouts as ‘the most important day of his life.’ He was loved by teammates and coaches alike. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the Vigar family and his friends during this devastating time.”
Derby County also expressed their condolences on social media, “Everyone at Derby County is deeply saddened by the passing of Billy Vigar. Billy spent the latter part of the 2022/23 season with our Academy on loan from Arsenal, making several appearances for the under-21s. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends at this very difficult time.”
Source: NotJustOK | Read the Full Story…
