A 20-year-old Manchester United supporter, Alfie Holt from Droylsden, has been charged with assault after allegedly slapping Manchester City midfielder Jack Grealish following a goalless Manchester derby at Old Trafford. The incident occurred as Grealish was heading down the tunnel after the match when Holt reportedly called him over and struck him. Grealish did not suffer any serious injuries. Holt is scheduled to appear at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on July 14.
Both Manchester United and Manchester City have refrained from commenting on the incident due to the ongoing legal proceedings. Greater Manchester Police have confirmed the charge and are continuing their investigation.
The match was also marred by other contentious moments, including offensive chants from Manchester United supporters directed at City’s Phil Foden, referencing his mother in an offensive manner. City manager Pep Guardiola condemned the behavior, highlighting it as a “lack of class and integrity.”
This incident is not the first time Grealish has been targeted by fan violence. In 2019, during a match between Birmingham City and Aston Villa, a spectator entered the pitch and assaulted Grealish from behind. The assailant was subsequently jailed for 14 weeks and received a 10-year football banning order.
The recent events at Old Trafford have raised concerns about player safety and fan behavior during high-profile matches. Authorities and football clubs are expected to review and potentially enhance security measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
