Ex-Arsenal player Billy Vigar dies aged 21 after horrific incident in non-league clash

Former Arsenal player Billy Vigar has tragically died after suffering a 'significant' brain injury during a recent match for Chichester City, it has been confirmed.

The 21-year-old was a part of the Gunners' U21s side up until last year, when he moved to Hastings United on a free transfer. Vigar moved to Chichester this summer. He sustained a serious head injury last weekend in a match against Wingate & Finchley, where he is understood to have collided with a concrete wall whilst trying to stop the ball from going out of play. The game was stopped immediately and an ambulance was called, with Vigar later being placed into an induced coma.

But Chichester confirmed on Thursday evening that Vigar had tragically passed away by sharing a statement from the player's family.

READ MORE: Arsenal send heartfelt message to former player in a coma with brain injury

READ MORE: Ex-Arsenal striker in coma with brain injury after horrific head collision during match

The statement read: "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."

Chichester added: "Rest in peace Billy. Forever in the hearts of all at Chichester City Football Club."

Arsenal shared a statement after Vigar's death expressing their devastation at the horrific news. They wrote: "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."

The Football Association acknowledged his death with a post on social media which read: "We are devastated to hear that Billy Vigar has passed away. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, loved ones, and everyone at Chichester City FC at this incredibly difficult time."

Vigar spent six months on loan at Derby County earlier in his career and the Rams said in a statement: "Derby County are deeply saddened by the passing of Billy Vigar.

"Billy spent the second half of the 2022/23 season with the Academy on loan from Arsenal, making several appearances for the Under-21s. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."

Vigar made 32 appearances for Eastbourne while on loan from Arsenal during the 2023-24 season and they too paid tribute to him following the tragic news. The club said: "[We] are devastated to learn of the passing of former player Billy Vigar.

"Both footballing and non-footballing club staff are shocked and deeply saddened of the news, and our thoughts are with Billy's family at this terrible time."

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