Ex-Arsenal academy player Billy Vigar dies from 'significant brain injury' suffered playing for Chichester City

Former Arsenal academy player Billy Vigar has died aged 21 following an incident at a non-League match.

Vigar, who was playing for Chichester City Football Club, suffered a significant brain injury during last weekend's game at Wingate and Finchley FC.

He was taken to hospital and placed into an induced coma before he had surgery on Tuesday.

But his club, who play in the Isthmian League Premier Division, announced Vigar died this morning.

A statement on social media read: "It is with great sadness that Chichester City Football Club has to confirm the passing of Billy Vigar.

"We request that his family's privacy is respected at this most difficult time. Rest in peace Billy. Forever in the hearts of all at Chichester City Football Club."

The club have postponed Saturday's scheduled match against Lewes.

Vigar's family, in a statement posted by the club, said: "After sustaining a significant brain injury last Saturday, Billy Vigar was put in an induced coma.

"On Tuesday, he needed an operation to aid any chances of recovery. Although this helped, the injury proved too much for him and he passed away on Thursday (25th) morning.

"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."

Vigar joined the Gunners' academy on schoolboy terms aged 14 before earning a full-time scholarship for the 2020/21 season.

The striker, who also had a loan spell with Derby Under-21s and Eastbourne Borough, left the Premier League side in 2024 after playing once in the EFL Trophy.

He then signed for Hastings before a move to Chichester last month.

Arsenal said in a statement: "Everyone at Arsenal is devastated by the shocking news that former academy graduate Billy Vigar has passed away.

"All our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this time. Rest in peace, Billy."

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