Former Arsenal striker Billy Vigar passes away after tragic collapse at Wingate and Finchley match | International Sports News
Billy Vigar, striker for Chichester City and former Arsenal academy player, has died at the age of 21. The young forward collapsed during an Isthmian League game against Wingate & Finchley in north London on Saturday, September 20, 2025. The match stopped after 13 minutes. Vigar was rushed to the hospital with a serious brain injury. He went into an induced coma. Doctors operated on Tuesday, but he passed away on Thursday morning, September 25.
Billy Vigar collapses in Wingate & Finchley game and dies at 21
Chichester City confirmed the news of Billy Vigar’s demise. In their statement, the club said: “Although the surgery gave hope, the injury was too much. Billy sadly passed away on Thursday morning.” The club also postponed their home game against Lewes on Saturday, September 27, as a mark of respect.Arsenal Football Club paid tribute to Vigar, who joined their academy in December 2017. He signed a professional contract in July 2022. Arsenal remembered him as “quick, powerful and fiercely determined.” In their message, the club wrote: “Billy once called the day he was scouted ‘the most important of his life.’ His love for football and pride at playing for Arsenal will never be forgotten.”At Hale End, he scored 17 goals in his first season. He played in the Premier League 2 and the EFL Trophy. He also filled different positions, showing versatility. Arsenal mentioned teammates from his group, including Charles Sagoe Jr, Omari Hutchinson, Charlie Patino, and Brook Norton-Cuffy.Derby County, where Vigar played on loan in 2022–23, also shared their grief. On X, they wrote: “All at Derby County are deeply saddened by the passing of Billy Vigar. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with his family and friends.”Also Read: Former Tennis Star Anna Kournikova Makes Rare Miami Appearance Showing Baby Bump While Expecting Fourth Child With Enrique Iglesias
Billy Vigar’s journey through English football
After leaving Arsenal, Billy Vigar joined Hastings United in July 2024. Later, he signed for Chichester City this season. He had also spent time on loan with Eastbourne Borough and Derby’s Under-21s.Tributes have poured in from across the English game. Fans, coaches, and former teammates described him as a talented striker and a kind teammate. His sudden death at 21 has left a deep shock in football, from grassroots clubs to Premier League teams.
