Former Arsenal player dies after tragic on-field incident

English soccer is mourning the loss of Billy Vigar, a former Arsenal youth prospect who died Thursday morning after suffering a traumatic brain injury during a non-league match last weekend. He was 21.

Vigar was playing for Chichester City, a semi-professional club in England’s seventh division, when he was critically injured in a game against Wingate & Finchley. The team confirmed in a statement that he was placed in a medically induced coma and underwent surgery Tuesday in an effort to save his life, but the injury proved too severe.

According to local reports, Vigar collided with a wall next to the field during the match, which was immediately halted. He was rushed to a hospital, where doctors fought for days to stabilize him. Despite the operation, he died early Thursday. Chichester City’s upcoming game against Lewes FC has been postponed out of respect for the player and his family.

The club asked for privacy for Vigar’s loved ones, calling the loss “devastating” and thanking fans for their support.

Arsenal pays tribute to beloved former player

Arsenal, where Vigar trained from age 14 after being discovered at his hometown club Hove Rivervale FC, released an emotional message remembering the young forward.

“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,” the club wrote. “As well as his significant talent, Billy will always be remembered for his love of the game, pride at representing our football club and a character beloved by teammates and coaches alike.”

Vigar once described the day Arsenal scouts discovered him as “the most important day of his life,” highlighting his lifelong passion for the sport.

Tributes pour in across English soccer

Clubs, players and associations throughout English soccer have sent condolences to Vigar’s family, teammates and friends. Chichester City said the outpouring of messages shows “how much Billy was thought of and loved within the sport,” adding that his family is heartbroken by the loss of a young man doing what he loved most.

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