Man arrested and charged after alleged Jack Grealish assault at Manchester derby

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Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 07/04/2025

- 17:06

Jack Grealish was allegedly slapped in the face by a Manchester United fan on Sunday

A Manchester City star was allegedly slapped in the face by a fan following Sunday's Manchester derby at Old Trafford.

Jack Grealish was reportedly assaulted as he made his way off the pitch after the goalless draw between Manchester United and City.


The incident occurred when Grealish was beckoned over by a member of the crowd positioned near the tunnel at the bottom of the Stretford End.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed that a 20-year-old man has been charged following the incident.

Jack Grealish

Jack Grealish was allegedly slapped in the face during the Manchester derby

PA

"Alfie Holt, 20, of Haven Drive, Droylsden, has been charged with assault. He will appear at Manchester Magistrates Court," a police spokesperson said.

The charge relates specifically to the incident that took place at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Police launched an investigation immediately after the alleged assault was reported.

Grealish had entered the match as a substitute in the 74th minute, replacing Ilkay Gundogan.

The alleged slap occurred as the 29-year-old midfielder was walking back towards the tunnel following the final whistle.

The match itself had ended in a drab 0-0 draw, with neither side creating many clear-cut chances at Old Trafford.

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It was Grealish's 29th appearance across all competitions for City this season.

According to reports, Grealish is not thought to have been seriously injured following the alleged attack.

The £100 million signing was making his way off the field when the incident occurred.

The alleged assault has triggered a police investigation, with authorities moving swiftly to charge the suspect.

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Jack Grealish

Jack Grealish was not thought to have been seriously injured following the alleged attack

PA

It marks an unfortunate end to what was already a tense Manchester derby at Old Trafford.

Both Manchester City and Manchester United have declined to comment on the incident due to the ongoing police investigation.

United are understood to be working closely with police on the matter.

The incident involving Grealish was not the only controversy at Old Trafford on Sunday.

City midfielder Phil Foden was also subjected to derogatory chants from sections of the home crowd during the match.

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City manager Pep Guardiola condemned the chants directed at Foden, which reportedly referenced the player's mother in a derogatory manner.

"Lack of class. But it's not United, it's the people, you know?" said Guardiola.

"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."

The FA are reportedly aware of the chants and have condemned them, but will not take action against United.