Benjamin Mendy, the 28-year-old footballer, has been released by Manchester City as he awaits a retrial on two alleged rape charges.
The player has been suspended by the club since August 2021 when he was initially charged. With his contract expiring at the end of this month, Manchester City has confirmed that Mendy will not be retained.
Earlier this year, Mendy was cleared of six counts of rape and one charge of sexual assault following a five-month trial at Chester Crown Court.
However, he is now set to face a retrial this month for one count of alleged rape and another of attempted rape. Mendy maintains his innocence and denies all charges.
The retrial is scheduled to commence on June 26, adding further uncertainty to Mendy’s future. After being acquitted of most charges in January, Mendy’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, expressed gratitude to the jury and all those who supported the player throughout the intense scrutiny of the case.
Wiltshire emphasized Mendy’s desire to clear his name and rebuild his life, but due to ongoing legal proceedings, neither she nor the player can provide further comments at this time.
Mendy’s co-accused, Louis Saha Matturie, was found not guilty of three counts of rape relating to two teenagers, but the jury was unable to reach verdicts on additional charges.
Matturie is also set to face a retrial later this year, scheduled for September.
As Mendy’s legal journey continues, his professional football career hangs in the balance, with the retrial outcome likely to have significant implications for his future.
Manchester City’s decision to part ways with the player reflects the club’s need to distance itself from the ongoing legal proceedings and maintain its commitment to upholding high standards both on and off the pitch.