Former Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy has made a significant career move, signing a two-year deal with Ligue 1 side Lorient shortly after being cleared of rape allegations. The 29-year-old left-back’s City contract had expired in the summer, opening the way for his transfer to the French club.
Mendy’s legal ordeal began in January, where he faced trial and was cleared of six counts of rape and one of sexual assault. In a subsequent trial, he was acquitted of two additional counts of rape and attempted rape, ultimately leading to his vindication.
During his time at Manchester City, Mendy proved his worth, becoming the world’s most expensive defender after his £52 million transfer from Monaco in 2017. He played an integral role in City’s Premier League triumph in his debut season and was also part of the victorious French squad that lifted the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Unfortunately, Mendy’s career was put on hold when he last played competitively in August 2021 before being arrested and spending five months in custody awaiting trial. However, the cloud over his footballing future lifted after his acquittal, and he received support from high-profile players such as Memphis Depay and Vinicius Jr.
Lorient, who finished 10th in Ligue 1 last season, expressed their delight in welcoming the accomplished player back to French football. Mendy’s return will bolster the team’s chances in the upcoming season, starting with a pre-season friendly against Bournemouth on 5 August and kicking off their league campaign against champions Paris St-Germain on 13 August.
As Mendy begins a new chapter in his footballing career, he will undoubtedly be looking forward to contributing his skills and experience to Lorient’s efforts on the pitch.
