A man has been arrested and charged after allegedly slapping Manchester City midfielder Jack Grealish in the face following the Manchester derby at Old Trafford.
The incident occurred as Grealish was walking towards the tunnel after Sunday’s goalless draw between Manchester United and Manchester City. The England international, 29, is said to have been approached by a fan in the Stretford End, who allegedly struck him in the face. Grealish was not seriously injured in the incident.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that Alfie Holt, 20, of Haven Drive, Droylsden, has been charged with assault and will appear at Manchester Magistrates’ Court.
Grealish, who came on as a 74th-minute substitute during a match described as lacklustre, has had a challenging season at City, making just 18 Premier League appearances so far. He was recently left out of Gareth Southgate’s latest England squad and has been the subject of transfer speculation ahead of the summer window.
The match was further marred by controversy after offensive chants from the stands targeted fellow City player Phil Foden, referencing his mother. City manager Pep Guardiola condemned the abuse post-match, calling it a “lack of class.”
Speaking after the game, Guardiola said: “Honestly, I don’t understand the minds of the people involved [chanting about] the mum of Phil. It’s a lack of integrity, class and they should be ashamed. But it is what it is. It happens everywhere.”
Greater Manchester Police said investigations into the Old Trafford incidents remain ongoing.
Stay with us for updates on this story and more Premier League news.
