Ex-Arsenal youth player Vigar dies from brain injury
Former Arsenal academy forward Billy Vigar has died following a severe brain injury sustained during a non-league fixture for Chichester City, the club confirmed Thursday. The 21-year-old suffered the injury in a match against Wingate and Finchley, triggering emergency surgery and an induced coma, but passed away despite medical intervention.
Vigar collided with a concrete wall while trying to keep the ball in play during Saturday’s Isthmian League Premier Division game, a seventh-tier competition in English football. He was promptly transported to hospital, where he underwent surgery on Tuesday intended to aid his recovery. However, the injury proved fatal, and Vigar died on Thursday morning.
Chichester City issued a statement expressing their sorrow and requesting privacy for Vigar’s family during this difficult period. The club postponed their upcoming match against Lewes. Vigar’s family also released a statement, acknowledging the outpouring of support and describing the tragic loss as devastating, especially as it occurred while he was playing the sport he loved.
Vigar joined Arsenal’s academy in 2017 and signed his first professional contract with the club in 2022. Known as a powerful and versatile forward with notable physicality and adaptability, he did not make a senior appearance for Arsenal and left the club in the summer of 2024. His career also included loan spells with Derby County’s Under-21 side, Hastings, and Eastbourne Borough.
Arsenal released a statement mourning the loss of their former academy player, extending condolences to his family and friends. Derby County also expressed deep sadness, highlighting Vigar’s contributions during his loan period and offering sympathies.
In response to Vigar’s passing, the Isthmian League Premier Division will observe a minute of silence before all matches this weekend, with players wearing black armbands as a mark of respect.
This tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the English football community, underscoring the risks athletes face at all levels of the game and marking a profound loss for clubs and supporters who had followed Vigar’s promising career.