Police have charged former AFL diversity manager Ali Fahour after he allegedly knocked a player unconscious during a suburban game.

Fahour was handed a life ban by the Northern Football League this week for his hit on Whittlesea player Dale Saddington – and then resigned from his position with the AFL.

The 35-year-old has now been charged with intentionally causing injury, recklessly causing injury and unlawful assault and is due to appear at the Heidelberg Magistrates Court in October.

AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan said his organisation had no choice but to accept Fahour’s resignation.

"As Ali said himself this week, there is no excuse or defence for his actions last weekend," McLachlan said.

"He's expressed his shame and remorse, and I know he feels this very deeply."