Chichester City FC striker and former Arsenal academy player Billy Vigar has tragically died at the age of 21 after sustaining a brain injury during a match.
Vigar, who was born in Worthing, suffered the injury during an Isthmian League Premier Division fixture against Wingate & Finchley last Saturday.
Reports suggest the injury may have occurred after he collided with a concrete wall, though the club has not officially confirmed the details.
His family released a statement saying:
“After sustaining a significant brain injury last Saturday, Billy Vigar was put into an induced coma. On Tuesday, he underwent surgery to support his chances of recovery. Although the operation offered some hope, the injury proved too severe, and Billy sadly passed away on Thursday morning.”
Vigar began his footballing journey with Arsenal, joining their academy and earning a scholarship in 2020.
He was part of a highly regarded youth intake alongside Charles Sagoe Jr, Remy Mitchell, Omari Hutchinson, Charlie Patino, and Brooke Norton-Cuffy.
During his time at Arsenal, he featured in the Premier League 2 and the EFL Trophy, demonstrating versatility by playing across forward positions and even filling in defensively when required — a testament to his commitment and team-first attitude.
After leaving Arsenal in 2024, Vigar went on to have spells with Derby County, Eastbourne Borough, and Hastings United. While on loan from Arsenal in the 2023–24 season, he made 32 appearances for Eastbourne Borough.
In a statement, Arsenal said:
“Everyone at the club is deeply sorry to hear of Billy’s passing. He was a valued player and colleague, and our thoughts are with his family, friends, and teammates at this incredibly difficult time.”
Chichester City confirmed on Thursday morning that their upcoming match against Lewes had been postponed. The club announced Vigar’s death shortly afterward.