Former Arsenal academy forward Billy Vigar has died at the age of 21 after suffering a serious brain injury while playing for Chichester City.The news was confirmed on Thursday evening, prompting trib...
Former Arsenal academy forward Billy Vigar has died at the age of 21 after suffering a serious brain injury while playing for Chichester City.
The news was confirmed on Thursday evening, prompting tributes from Arsenal and the wider football community for a player remembered as much for his character as his talent.
Photo via Hastings United
Vigar joined Arsenal from Hove Rivervale at 14 and quickly made an impression at Hale End, scoring 17 goals in his first season before earning a scholarship in 2020. He signed professional terms in 2022, having shown both his resilience and quality after overcoming a major hamstring injury as a scholar.
A regular at under-18 level, Vigar trained with the first team as a teenager and appeared in both Premier League 2 and the EFL Trophy. His adaptability was such that he was trusted to play across the forward line and even filled in at the back when required.
Loan spells at Derby County and Eastbourne Borough gave him senior experience before he left Arsenal in 2024 for Hastings United and moved to Chichester City this summer.
In their statement, Arsenal said: “Everyone at Arsenal Football Club is deeply sorry to hear of the tragic passing of Chichester City forward and former Arsenal academy player, Billy Vigar… As well as his significant talent, Billy will always be remembered for his love of the game, pride at representing our football club – he once called the day he was spotted by our scouts as ‘the most important of his life’ – and a character beloved by teammates and coaches alike.”
Along with Chichester City and Arsenal, we extend our deepest condolences to the Vigar family.
Category: General Sports
