Former Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy has officially joined Ligue 1 outfit FC Lorient, less than a week after he was cleared of rape and attempted rape charges.
The 29-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the Merlus, who finished 16th in Ligue 1 last season. Mendy will wear the number 5 shirt.
“We are very happy to welcome Benjamin to our club,” said Lorient president Loïc Féry. “He is a talented player with a lot of experience at the highest level. We are confident that he will be a valuable asset to our team.”
Mendy is a left-back who can also play as a central defender. He has won four Premier League titles, two League Cups, and the FA Cup with Manchester City. He was also part of the France national team that won the 2018 World Cup.
Mendy’s signing is a coup for Lorient, who are looking to improve on their 16th-place finish last season. The Merlus have also signed striker Terem Moffi from FC Nantes and midfielder Enzo Le Fée from Stade Rennais.
Mendy will be hoping to put his recent legal troubles behind him and focus on his football. He has been cleared of all charges, but the case has undoubtedly taken a toll on his career.
A fresh start at Lorient could be the perfect opportunity for Mendy to rebuild his reputation and get his career back on track.
