Former Manchester United footballer Ryan Giggs has arrived at court to face trial accused of assaulting and controlling his ex-girlfriend.
The 48-year-old was surrounded by a scrum of press photographers and TV camera crews as he arrived at Minshull Street Crown Court in Manchester with his legal team and accompanied by four family members.
A jury to hear the trial will be selected later before the trial begins with the prosecution opening by Peter Wright QC.
Some 30 reporters filled the public gallery for the start of proceedings, with more watching remotely on a video link.
Giggs is accused of using controlling and coercive behaviour against Kate Greville, 36, between August 2017 and November 2020.
He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The trial, before Judge Hilary Manley, is estimated to last up to 10 days.
Giggs was initially set to face trial in January but the hearing was put back because of the ongoing backlog of court cases exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Giggs stood down in June as manager of the Wales national team following a period of leave since November 2020.
During Giggs’ time at Old Trafford, Manchester United won 13 Premier League titles, two Champions League trophies, four FA Cups and three League Cups.
He won 64 caps for Wales and is co-owner of League Two side Salford City.
