Benjamin Mendy to play top-level football after signing SURPRISE two-year deal

Robin Bairner

• 19 Jul 2023 10:45 BST
• 2 min read

Breaking

Benjamin Mendy has made a surprise transfer to Ligue 1 side Lorient, where he has signed a two-year contract following his release from Manchester City.

Mendy has not played in nearly two years after being accused – but subsequently found not guilty – of several charges of rape and one of sexual assault.

In a statement, the Ligue 1 side said: “Lorient are happy to announce today the signing of two signing of France international left-back Benjamin Mendy.

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“Having passed the traditional medical visit, Benjamin Mendy, World Cup winner in 2018, four-time winner of the Premier League under the colours of Manchester City and champion of France with Monaco, will reinforce the Lorient squad for the new season.

“The native of Longjumeau, who will wear the No.5 shirt with Lorient, will take his first step at Espace FCL today.

“Welcome Benjamin!”

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Mendy ready to restart career after not guilty verdict

Mendy played 75 times over six seasons for Pep Guardiola’s Man City, winning acclaim for his attacking performances from the left-back role.

His career hit a standstill, however, when he was accused of four counts of rape and another of sexual assault in August 2021. More accusations followed, but across two separate trials in January and June, he was found not guilty of all charges.

Following the announcement, he received support from fellow professionals, with Jack Grealish, Paul Pogba, Rio Ferdinand and Memphis Depay among those to voice their support for the 29-year-old.

When exiting the court, the full-back was asked if he would play professional football again but offered no comment to the journalists asking the questions.

In moving to Lorient, Mendy will hope to take himself out of the media spotlight, with the Breton side coming from a small down in France’s west, as far as possible aware from the glare of the media.