OFFICIAL: Benjamin Mendy signs for Ligue 1 side, Lorient on a 2-year contract

OFFICIAL: Benjamin Mendy has joined Ligue 1 side FC Lorient on a two-year deal following his release from Man City this summer

Benjamin Mendy has signed for Ligue 1 outfit FC Lorient less than a week after he was cleared of rape and attempted rape.

The former Manchester City defender will ply his trade in the French top flight, with Lorient confirming the transfer via a statement on their website. The update read: "FC Lorient is pleased to announce today the signing for two seasons of French international left-back Benjamin Mendy.

"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!"

Mendy joined Manchester City for £52million in 2017, inking a £100k-a-week deal when arriving from Monaco. But he was released at the end of June when his contract ended. He last played for City in August 2021.

Just last week, Mendy wept at Chester Crown Court as a jury cleared him of rape charges following a retrial. He was found not guilty of all allegations made by six women.