Arsenal Stadium London
Arsenal has publicly expressed its support for former player Billy Vigar following a serious injury he sustained while playing for Chichester City. The 21-year-old, who was part of Arsenal’s U21 squad until last year, suffered a horrific collision during a match against Wingate and Finchley. In an attempt to prevent the ball from going out of play, Vigar collided with a concrete wall, leading to the immediate halting of the game and the swift arrival of an ambulance.
Arsenal posted on social media: “Wishing you a speedy recovery, Billy. Everyone at Arsenal sends love and support to Billy and his loved ones at this difficult time.”
Following the incident, Chichester City provided an update on Vigar’s condition via social media, expressing love and support from the entire club family. Vigar, who never featured in a senior match for Arsenal, was a consistent performer in their Under-18s and Premier League 2 squad. During the 2021-22 U18s Premier League season, he contributed four goals and two assists for Arsenal’s youth team. He also spent a season playing Premier League 2 football for the north London club, registering one assist in four outings before being loaned to Derby County U21s, where he featured nine times.
The football community has rallied around Vigar, with numerous messages of support pouring in, particularly from fellow non-league clubs.
Cray Valley FC posted: “Best wishes to Billy, our thoughts are with him.”
Dulwich Hamlet FC shared on their social media platform: “The thoughts of everyone at Champion Hill are with Billy, his family, his friends, and everyone at Chichester City.”
Brentwood Town FC tweeted: “Our thoughts are with Billy and his family at this difficult and sensitive time. We’re all wishing him strength and a full recovery. From all of us at Brentwood Town FC.”
Vigar’s move to Chichester City this summer followed his transfer from Arsenal to Hastings United on a free transfer last year. His recent injury has drawn widespread attention and support, underscoring the strong sense of community and solidarity within the football world. As Vigar continues his recovery, the messages of encouragement and solidarity from clubs and fans alike demonstrate the close-knit nature of the football community.