Former Arsenal Striker Dies at 21 Following On-Field Injury

Former Arsenal striker Billy Vigar has died at the age of 21 after sustaining a serious brain injury while playing for Chichester City. The injury occurred during Chichester’s Isthmian League Premier Division match against Wingate and Finchley last Saturday, which was abandoned after 13 minutes. Vigar was placed in an induced coma and underwent surgery on Tuesday in an attempt to aid his recovery, but he passed away on Thursday morning.

A statement from his family read: “The responses to the original update show how much Billy was thought of and loved within the sport. His family are devastated that this has happened whilst he was playing the sport that he loved.” Chichester City also issued a statement expressing their sorrow and asking for the family’s privacy to be respected.

Vigar joined Arsenal’s academy as a 14-year-old in 2017 and signed a professional contract in 2022. He spent time on loan at Derby and Eastbourne Borough before joining Hastings United in 2024. He signed with Chichester City at the start of this season. Arsenal paid tribute to Vigar, highlighting both his talent and his passion for the game, and extended their condolences to his family and friends.