Benjamin Mendy returns to football 5 days after being cleared of rape

Benjamin Mendy has returned to football in a shock transfer just weeks after leaving Manchester City and five days after being cleared of rape.

The French World Cup winner has signed for Ligue 1 side Lorient until June 2025 just days after he was cleared of rape and attempted rape.

Benjamin Mendy left Manchester City by mutual consent last month at the expiration of his contract, having not played for the Premier League and Champions League winners since 2021.

The 29-year-old was cleared of rape and attempted rape at Chester Crown Court last week.

That followed a trial in January, when Mendy was cleared of six counts of rape and one of sexual assault.

A club statement from the club, based in Brittany, read: “FC Lorient is pleased to announce today the signing for two seasons of French international left-back Benjamin Mendy (29).

“After having satisfied the traditional medical examination, Benjamin Mendy, world champion 2018, quadruple winner of the Premier League under the colors of Manchester City and French champion of Ligue 1 with Monaco in particular, comes to reinforce the Lorient workforce for this new season.

“The native of Longjumeau, who will wear number 5 with the Merlus, will take his first steps at Espace FCL today. Welcome Benjamin!”

On Friday he celebrated his freedom with pals on Friday evening by going out.