The young striker, who suffered a severe brain injury during a match, is remembered as a player loved within the sport he adored.
The football world is in mourning after the tragic death of former Arsenal academy player Billy Vigar at the age of 21. The sad news was confirmed on Thursday that the Chichester City forward passed away after sustaining a catastrophic brain injury during a match the previous Saturday.
Vigar was playing for his club in the Isthmian League Premier Division when the incident occurred just ten minutes into the game against Wingate and Finchley, leading to its abandonment. He was immediately rushed to the hospital and placed in an induced coma. Despite undergoing surgery on Tuesday to aid his recovery, his injuries proved insurmountable.
Arsenal, where Vigar spent his formative years after joining at age 14, led the tributes. “Everyone at Arsenal is devastated by the shocking news that former academy graduate Billy Vigar has passed away,” the club said in a heartfelt statement. “All our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this time.”
Born in Worthing, Vigar signed his first professional contract with the Gunners in 2022 and was a part of the club’s under-21 setup before embarking on a non-league career with Hastings United and, most recently, Chichester City, where he had scored twice in six appearances.
In its own emotional statement, Chichester City shared the profound grief of Vigar’s family, noting that the tragedy occurred “whilst he was playing the sport that he loved.” The Football Association also expressed its devastation, sending “heartfelt condolences” to all who knew the gifted young man.
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