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Billy Vigar, former Arsenal academy striker, has died at 21 after a match injury.
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Chichester City postponed their next fixture in his honor.
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Tributes from clubs and fans celebrated his talent and character.
Chichester City FC and former Arsenal academy striker Billy Vigar has died after suffering a significant brain injury during an Isthmian League Premier Division match.
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The 21-year-old from Worthing suffered the injury during Saturday’s game at Wingate and Finchley.
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Witnesses believe he hit a concrete wall, though the club has not confirmed that detail.
“After sustaining a significant brain injury last Saturday, Billy Vigar was put into an induced coma. On Tuesday, he needed an operation to aid any chances of recovery. Although this helped, the injuryproved too much for him and he passed away on Thursday morning.” – the family said on Thursday
Clubs, teammates and fans reacted at once. Chichester City confirmed the death and immediately postponed Saturday’s scheduled match against Lewes.
Clubs linked to his career posted tributes across social channels.
A graduate of the Arsenal academy, Billy Vigar left the club in 2024 and then played for Derby County, Hastings United and Eastbourne Borough.
He stood out at Hale End and scouts followed his progress through youth systems.
“Billy joined our academy on schoolboy terms aged 14, after being scouted at his hometown club Hove Rivervale FC and excelled as a striker at Hale End… As well as his significant talent, Billy will always be remembered for his love of the game, pride at representing our football club… and a character beloved by team-mates and coaches alike. Our deepest condolences go out to the Vigar family and his many friends at this extremely difficult time.” – Arsenal said.
“The responses to the original update show how much Billy was loved and thought of within the sport.”
This loss hits non-league football hard. Many call for immediate safety reviews at lower-league grounds, better medical cover and clearer pitch-to-wall margins.
Officials continue to investigate while the football community rallies around the Vigar family.
If you knew or followed Billy Vigar, please leave memories and messages below.
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