ARSENAL has released a heartbreaking tribute to the “fiercely determined” ex-player Billy Vigar after his tragic death.
The ex-Gunners star died following a horror brain jury suffered when he tragically hit his head during a match.
Billy Vigar, 21, of Chichester City was placed into an induced coma following the incident during Saturday’s match against Wingate and Finchley.
In an emotional tribute to the young player, his ex-team Arsenal said everyone is “devastated”.
In a statement, the club said: “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 Isthmian Premier Division game was suspended just 15 minutes in after the striker collided with a hard pitchside surface.
He was treated by an ambulance crew before a helicopter rushed him to hospital.
The fixture was then abandoned completely as the club confirmed Vigar had suffered a serious brain injury.
He was then placed into a coma and underwent an operation – but the injury was so serious he tragically wouldn’t recover.
The sad news of Billy’s passing was confirmed by Chichester City Football Club on Thursday evening, who released a statement from his family.
They 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 to much for him and he passed away on Thursday (25th) morning.”
Billy’s distraught family added: “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.”
The time of the accident: “Billy received a significant brain injury and is currently in an induced coma in intensive care receiving the best possible treatment.
“It is too early to say what the outcome will be and even if things go well, there will be a long road to recovery.”
They followed up their statement with a post reading: “Love from the whole CCFC family Billy.”
The FA said in a statement: “We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, loved ones and everyone at Chichester City FC at this incredibly difficult time.”
Career
Vigar, from Worthing, West Sussex, spent his youth career with Arsenal after joining at age 14 and signed a professional contract in July 2022.
He worked his way up to the U21 team in North London, alongside loan spells with Derby County U21 and Eastbourne.
In a post to mark his signing, the player said: “Very happy to have signed my first professional contract @arsenal.
“Proud moment for me and my family. The hard work continues.”
He left the club permanently in 2024 after being unable to progress to the senior team, joining Hastings United in the Non-League Premier before his move to Chichester.
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