Former Manchester United footballer Ryan Giggs has been charged with assaulting his ex-girlfriend.
Wales manager Giggs, 47, is accused of causing actual bodily harm to PR worker Kate Greville, 36, at his home in Worsley, Greater Manchester, in November.
He faces an additional charge of engaging in coercive or controlling behaviour against Ms Greville between December 2017 and November 2020.
Giggs has also been charged with the common assault of a woman in her 20s – understood to be Ms Greville’s sister – during the same alleged incident.
He will appear on bail at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on April 28, said Greater Manchester Police.
In a statement issued on Friday, Giggs said: “I have full respect for the due process of law and understand the seriousness of the allegations.
“I will plead not guilty in court and look forward to clearing my name.”
Earlier, the Crown Prosecution Service said: “We have authorised Greater Manchester Police to charge Ryan Giggs with engaging in behaviour which was controlling or coercive and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
“A charge of assault by beating relating to a second woman has also been authorised.
“The CPS made the decision to charge Mr Giggs after reviewing a file of evidence from Greater Manchester Police.
“Criminal proceedings are active and nothing should be published that could jeopardise the defendant’s right to a fair trial.”
Police were called to the address in Chatsworth Road at 10.05pm on Sunday November 1 to reports of a disturbance.
A woman in her 30s was treated for injuries at the scene.
The Football Association of Wales (FAW) announced caretaker boss Robert Page would manage the country at this summer’s European Championship finals.
In a statement, the FAW said: “The Football Association of Wales has noted the decision of the Crown Prosecution Service to proceed with charging Ryan Giggs, the men’s national team manager.
“An FAW board meeting will be convened to discuss these developments and its impact on the association and the national team.”
Giggs won 64 caps for Wales and had a glittering playing career with Manchester United, winning 13 Premier League titles, two Champions Leagues, four FA Cups and three League Cups.
He is also a co-owner of League Two side Salford City.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article