A 20-year-old man has been charged with assault after Manchester City midfielder Jack Grealish was allegedly slapped following Sunday’s tense 0-0 draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Grealish, 29, had come on as a second-half substitute in the high-stakes derby. According to reports from the Daily Mail, he was approached and struck while leaving the pitch after full-time.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed on Monday that Alfie Holt, of Haven Drive, Droylsden, has been charged in connection with the incident. He is scheduled to appear at Manchester Magistrates Court on 14 July.
“This charge relates to an incident which took place at Old Trafford Football Club yesterday,” the police stated.
Both Manchester United and Manchester City have declined to comment on the matter when contacted by BBC Sport.
The match was further overshadowed by unsavoury chants from sections of the United fanbase, directed at Phil Foden’s mother. City manager Pep Guardiola condemned the behavior, calling it a sign of “a lack of class.”
As investigations continue, the incident raises renewed concerns about player safety and fan conduct at major football fixtures.
