A Manchester United supporter has been barred from attending matches at Old Trafford after being accused of assaulting Manchester City midfielder Jack Grealish at the conclusion of Sunday`s Manchester derby.
Alfie Holt, 20, is accused of slapping 29-year-old Grealish as the player was leaving the pitch at Old Trafford following the goalless draw.
It is alleged that as Grealish was heading towards the tunnel after the Premier League match, Holt gestured for him to come closer before raising his hand towards the England international.
Grealish, who was substituted into the game in the 74th minute, reported the incident to club officials, and police subsequently arrested Holt.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police stated: “Alfie Holt, 20, from Droylsden, has been charged with assault and is scheduled to appear at Manchester Magistrates Court in July.”
“This charge is in connection to an incident that occurred at Old Trafford Football Club.”
Following the charge, Manchester United immediately imposed a ban on Holt.
Neighbors expressed surprise at Holt`s alleged involvement in the incident.
One neighbor commented, “I`m very surprised he`s been charged by the police. It seems very unlike him.”
“He’s a nice young man, and I always stop for a chat with him when I see him around.”
“He has a girlfriend and is often seen helping his father with tasks around their home.”
Another neighbor mentioned that Alfie was a devoted Manchester United fan.
She also found it surprising that Alfie would be involved in any trouble.
“Perhaps it was just a misunderstanding, and the situation has been misinterpreted,” she suggested.
“He doesn’t strike me as someone who would intentionally cause problems.”
Grealish is believed to be unharmed following the incident, which compounded a disappointing day for Manchester City.
Earlier in the game, Phil Foden, Grealish’s teammate, was subjected to abusive chants about his mother from sections of the home crowd throughout the match.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola condemned the chants targeting Foden`s family, describing them as “a lack of class” and expressing his shame for those involved.
Guardiola added: “Honestly, I don`t understand people who involve Phil`s mum. It shows a lack of integrity and class, and those responsible should feel ashamed.”
