Benjamin Mendy makes instant return to football after being cleared of rape charges

The former Manchester City star was found not guilty by Chester Crown Court last week and has wasted no time in relaunching his career.

The 2018 World Cup winner has signed a two-year deal with Lorient and returns to French football for the first time since leaving Monaco to join City in 2017.

The 28-year-old was cleared of six counts of rape and one of sexual assault in his original trial at the start of the year.

However, Jurors at the time could not reach verdicts on one count of rape and one of attempted rape.

After learning of his acquittal, Mendy put his head on his knees and wiped away tears at Chester Crown Court.

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Mendy's lawyer Jenny Wiltshire, gave a statement on behalf of her client, who pledged to 'rebuild his life'.

She said: "Benjamin Mendy would like to thank the members of the jury for focusing on the evidence in this trial, rather than on the rumour and innuendo that have followed this case from the outset.

"This is the second time that Mr Mendy has been tried and found not guilty by a jury.

"He is delighted that both juries reached the correct verdicts.

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"It has been almost three years since the police started investigating this matter.

"Mr Mendy has tried to remain strong but the process has, inevitably had a serious impact on him.

"He thanks everyone who has supported him throughout this ordeal and now asks for privacy so he can begin rebuilding his life."

New club Lorient welcomed Mendy's arrival on the club's Twitter account on Wednesday and revealed the defender will wear the No.5 shirt.

A statement 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 colours 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!"

Mendy signed for Manchester City in 2017 in £52m deal from Monaco after impressing during the principality side's title-winning season.

The Frenchman battled back from multiple knee injuries early into his City career to help the club claim three Premier League titles under Pep Guardiola.

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However, Manchester City suspended Mendy in August 2021 when the charges against him were announced.

He became a free agent last month when his contract with the Premier League champions expired.