Former Arsenal striker Billy Vigar has sadly passed away at just 21 years old after suffering a serious brain injury while playing football for Chichester City last weekend.
The young forward was badly hurt during Saturday’s Isthmian League Premier Division match against Wingate and Finchley. The game had to be stopped and later abandoned after only 13 minutes because of the seriousness of his injury.
Billy was placed in an induced coma soon after. On Tuesday, doctors carried out an operation in the hope of giving him the best chance of recovery. Sadly, even though the surgery helped for a short while, his injuries were too severe, and he died on Thursday morning, September 25.
In a heartfelt statement, his family said:“After suffering a major brain injury on Saturday, Billy was put into an induced coma. He needed surgery on Tuesday to try and support his recovery. Although the operation helped, the injury was too much for him to survive. Billy passed away on Thursday morning. The many messages we received after our first update show just how loved and respected Billy was in football. Our family is heartbroken that this tragedy happened while he was playing the game he loved so much.”
His current club, Chichester City, also shared their grief:
“It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of our player, Billy Vigar. This is a very painful time for everyone close to him, and we ask that the family’s privacy is respected as they try to cope with this loss.”
Billy’s football journey began when he joined Arsenal’s academy in 2017 at the age of 14. After years of development, he signed a professional contract in 2022. He later went on loan to Derby County and Eastbourne Borough, before joining Hastings United in 2024. This season, he moved to Chichester City, looking for a fresh start in his career.
Arsenal, the club where Billy first made his name, also paid tribute:
Everyone at Arsenal Football Club is heartbroken to hear about the tragic passing of Billy Vigar, former Arsenal academy player and current Chichester City striker. Billy joined us at 14 years old after being spotted at his hometown team, Hove Rivervale FC. He quickly showed his talent as a striker, scoring 17 goals in his first season at our Hale End academy.Beyond his skill, Billy will be remembered for his passion for football, his pride in wearing the Arsenal shirt, and the joy he brought to teammates and coaches. He once said the day he was discovered by our scouts was ‘the most important day of his life.’ Billy’s character, spirit, and love for the game made him a truly special person.
We send our deepest sympathy to Billy’s family and friends at this heartbreaking time.
