Young Footballer Billy Vigar Tragically Dies at 21 After On-Field Injury

British football talent Billy Vigar has tragically passed away at the age of 21, following injuries sustained during a recent game.

“After suffering a significant injury last Saturday, Billy Vigar was placed in an induced coma,” a statement issued on Thursday, September 25, by the Chichester City Football Club confirmed. “By Tuesday, an operation was necessary to enhance any prospects of recovery.”

The club's announcement further stated, “While this procedure aimed to improve his chances of recuperation, the severity of the injury proved too overwhelming, and he passed away on Thursday morning. His family is heartbroken that this occurred while he was engaged in the sport he loved.”

The football club additionally requested that Vigar’s family’s privacy be “respected during this exceptionally difficult time.”

Previously: Premier League Footballer George Baldock's Tragic Drowning Incident

In a subsequent message posted on social media, the Chichester organization extended their condolences to Vigar’s family.

“Rest in peace Billy,” an X (formerly Twitter) message conveyed. “Forever cherished in the hearts of everyone at Chichester City Football Club.”

The forward suffered his injury during Chichester City FC’s match on Saturday, September 20.

“Chichester City Football Club can confirm that on Saturday, September 20th, one of our players sustained a serious injury in our fixture at Wingate & Finchley,” an X statement from the team had read at the time.

Several days afterward, the team confirmed that Vigar had been admitted to the hospital and was in an induced coma.

“Billy received a significant brain injury and is currently in an induced coma in intensive care, receiving the best possible treatment,” a social media update on Monday, September 22, stated. “It is too early to determine the outcome, and even with a positive prognosis, a long journey to recovery lies ahead. With love from the entire CCFC family, Billy.”

Chichester City FC has since rescheduled their upcoming game against Lewes FC, originally set for Saturday, September 27.

In Other News: College Footballer Chase Stegall, Age 20, Discovered Deceased in Residence Hall

Vigar had previously been a part of Arsenal’s youth squad.

“Everyone at Arsenal is devastated by the shocking news of the passing of former academy graduate Billy Vigar,” a statement from the club on Thursday conveyed. “All our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this period. Rest in peace, Billy.”

The club also published a more detailed statement on its official website.

“Billy joined our academy on schoolboy terms at 14, after being scouted from his hometown club Hove Rivervale FC, and excelled as a striker at Hale End, scoring 17 goals in his debut season,” the Arsenal website details. “Known for his speed, power, and fierce determination, his first season as a scholar was impacted by a serious hamstring injury, but he compensated in his second, scoring four goals in 18 under-18 appearances and signed professional terms for the club at the end of that 2021/22 season.”

The statement concluded, “Beyond his considerable talent, Billy will always be remembered for his profound love of the game, his pride in representing our football club — he once referred to the day he was spotted by our scouts as ’the most important of his life’ — and a character beloved by both teammates and coaches. Our deepest condolences go out to the Vigar family and his many friends at this exceptionally difficult time.”

Sports Figures, Including LeBron James, Share Tributes Following Liverpool Football Star's Demise

A post on the Premier League’s X account also paid tribute to Vigar.

“Our thoughts are with Billy’s family, friends, and all those connected with Arsenal and Chichester City during this incredibly sad time,” the statement conveyed.

One of Vigar’s final Instagram posts, shared in 2022, showcased his time with the Arsenal youth team.

“Very happy to have signed my first professional contract @arsenal,” he wrote in July 2022. “A proud moment for me and my family. The hard work continues.”