On July 14, 2025, Alfie Holt, a 20-year-old Manchester United season ticket holder, pleaded guilty to a single count of assault by beating after slapping Manchester City and England star Jack Grealish in the face following a heated Manchester Derby on April 6, 2025.
The incident, which occurred at Old Trafford, led to Holt receiving a three-year Football Banning Order and a fine of £120, along with £85 in costs and a £48 surcharge, as determined by Manchester Magistrates’ Court.
Details of the Assault
The court heard that the assault took place as Grealish was leaving the pitch after the highly charged match, which was broadcast live on Sky to a sell-out crowd. Prosecutor Shazia Aslam described the Manchester Derby as a “contentious affair,” noting that both sets of fans were vocally abusive toward rival players. Holt, positioned near the tunnel in the Stretford End, was shouting insults at Manchester City players, including Phil Foden, who ignored him. When Holt directed an insult at Grealish, the footballer reacted, leading to a verbal altercation. According to Holt, Grealish called him a “little ugly w*****,” prompting him to “flip” and slap Grealish across the face. No injury was reported.
In a witness statement, Grealish told police he could not hear Holt’s comments due to crowd noise but approached him to engage in conversation. As he leaned in and then turned to walk away, Holt struck him. Holt, who had been drinking in town before attending the match with his father, was arrested outside the stadium. He admitted to police that his actions were a reaction to Grealish’s alleged insult and expressed regret in court, stating, “I did not expect him to say what he said to me, and I have reacted. I regret it. That’s it.”
Defence and Court’s Ruling
Defence solicitor Melanie Winstanley argued that the assault was “minor and momentary” and out of character for Holt, who had no prior convictions and fully cooperated with police. She noted that Holt’s Manchester United season ticket, held for 12 years, had already been revoked, serving as significant punishment. Winstanley also pointed out that Grealish had “doubled back” from the tunnel to engage with Holt, adding that while this did not excuse the behaviour, “it’s not unusual for players and fans to engage in banter at football matches.”
The incident highlights the intense emotions surrounding high-stakes football matches like the Manchester Derby, which prosecutor Aslam described as “high risk to public safety” due to frequent disorderly behavior. The three-year Football Banning Order ensures Holt cannot attend matches, underscoring the court’s stance on preventing violence and disorder in football.
