Chichester, September 26(HS): illy Vigar, a 21-year-old former Arsenal academy striker, has died days after suffering a major brain injury during a match for Chichester City FC at Wingate & Finchley. The incident happened last Saturday, with reports suggesting Vigar collided with a concrete wall during play. He was placed in an induced coma and underwent surgery, but could not recover from his injuries, his family confirmed on Thursday.

Arsenal Football Club led tributes, recalling Vigar’s distinguished spell at their academy where he joined as a teenager from Hove Rivervale FC and quickly made an impression by scoring 17 goals in his debut season. Despite struggling with a serious hamstring injury early in his career, Vigar signed professional terms after proving his abilities across multiple forward roles.

Arsenal described him as “quick, powerful and fiercely determined,” praising his versatility and positive influence both on and off the pitch.Vigar’s career included loan spells at Derby County, Eastbourne Borough, and Hastings United after leaving Arsenal in 2024.

Derby County, where he played for the Under-21s, also expressed deep sorrow, sending condolences to Vigar’s family and friends. Eastbourne Borough and Hastings United shared similar messages, remembering Vigar for his passion and contribution to the teams.The Football Association, along with the wider football community, has expressed shock and sympathy over the loss.

Chichester City’s scheduled fixture against Lewes has been postponed in the wake of Vigar’s passing, as tributes continue to pour in for the young striker who was admired across English football for his commitment and spirit.

—————

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar