A man has been charged with assault for allegedly slapping Jack Grealish at Old Trafford at the end of the goalless derby between Manchester United and Manchester City on Sunday.
Grealish, who entered as a 74th-minute replacement, is thought to have been near the tunnel at the Stretford End when the man is alleged to have struck the City forward.
Related: ‘Lack of class’: Guardiola hits out at United fans’ chant about Foden’s mother
A statement from Greater Manchester police on Monday said a 20-year-old man from Droylsden had been charged with assault: “He will appear at Manchester magistrates court on 14 July. This charge relates to an incident which took place at Old Trafford yesterday.”
When contacted by the Guardian, United and City declined to comment owing to it being an ongoing legal matter.
During the match Grealish’s teammate Phil Foden was abused by United fans, who chanted about his mother. The invective was directed at the winger during the first half when City attacked the Stretford End. After the game City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, stated those who did so lacked “class”, and United and City condemned the chants.
The Football Association will not take any action. Although the governing body condemns offensive chants those in question did not breach its regulations.
