After Manchester City winger Jack Grealish was allegedly slapped in the face by a fan at the Manchester derby, a Manchester United fan has been arrested and charged for the assault.
The incident occurred as Grealish was leaving the field after the 0-0 draw on Sunday, with the attack taking place near the tunnel at the Stretford End.
Following a police investigation, a 20-year-old man was arrested and charged with assault. He is set to appear before Manchester magistrates in July.
Fortunately, Grealish, 29, did not suffer serious injuries from the attack and was able to continue playing after coming on as a substitute in the 74th minute.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: ‘Alfie Holt, 20, of Haven Drive, Droylsden, has been charged with assault. He will appear at Manchester Magistrates Court.
‘This charge relates to an incident which took place at Old Trafford Football Club yesterday.’
The incident came at the end of the game in which City’s Phil Foden was relentlessly taunted by home fans.
Following the match, City boss Pep Guardiola said derogatory chants about the England playmaker’s family showed ‘a lack of class’.
‘Lack of class. But it’s not United, it’s the people, you know?’ said Guardiola.
‘We are so exposed, people who are on the screen in world football – managers, owners, and football players especially.
‘Honestly, I don’t understand the mind of the people involving the mum of Phil. It’s a lack of integrity, class, and they should be ashamed.’
