Pep Guardiola Provides Update on Jack Grealish After Manchester Derby Assault
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has opened up about Jack Grealish’s emotional state following an incident in which the midfielder was allegedly assaulted after the recent Manchester derby.
Speaking ahead of City’s Premier League clash with Crystal Palace, Guardiola shared that Grealish is still shaken by the post-match incident at Old Trafford, where a 20-year-old man reportedly struck him after the final whistle. “He doesn’t feel good,” said Guardiola. “But he’s trying to move forward.”
The assault occurred in the aftermath of the derby, which ended in a goalless draw. Reports suggest that Grealish was lured toward the tunnel by someone in the crowd before the alleged slap took place. Greater Manchester Police have since charged a man identified as Alfie Holt, 20, with assault. He is due to appear in court soon.
Guardiola also addressed another disturbing moment from the same match: offensive chants directed at Phil Foden’s mother by a section of Manchester United supporters. He called the incident “a lack of integrity and class,” stressing that such behavior is part of a broader issue, not limited to any one club. “It’s not United – it’s the people. We are so exposed in this world, especially players and coaches,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Guardiola affirmed that both Grealish and Foden are doing their best to stay focused as the team prepares for upcoming fixtures. He remarked on the state of the world in general, saying, “It’s a crazy world – not just in sport, but everywhere. We’re not on the right path.”
Manchester City will return to action on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. when they face Crystal Palace. The London side, managed by Oliver Glasner, has been in solid form, collecting 13 points from their last five Premier League matches.
As the football world reacts to these incidents, Guardiola’s words serve as a reminder of the pressures athletes face both on and off the pitch – and the importance of unity and respect in sport.
