Benjamin Mendy issues statement after winning his legal case against Manchester City

Benjamin Mendy, 30, was not paid by Manchester City after his arrest in August 2021. The club stopped his wages in September 2021 following charges of rape and sexual assault. After being acquitted, Mendy took City to an employment tribunal over the withheld £11 million in wages. Judge Joanne Dunlop ruled that City must pay most of this sum, excluding a five-month period, as Mendy was prevented from working due to FA suspension and bail conditions.

Judge Dunlop stated, “I found that Mr. Mendy was ‘ready and willing’ to work during the non-custody periods, and was prevented from doing so by unavoidable or involuntary impediments. In those circumstances, and without contractual authorization for the employer to withhold pay, he was entitled to be paid.”

Mendy was released on bail in January 2022 and acquitted of multiple charges by January 2023. Following a retrial, he was cleared of further charges in mid-2023.

After the verdict, Mendy expressed relief, saying, “Having waited three years for my wages, I’m pleased with the decision. I hope the club will now fulfill its obligations and pay the outstanding amounts promptly so I can finally move on.”

Mendy, who made 75 appearances for City between 2017 and 2021, left in June 2023 and currently plays for Lorient in France.