Ex-Man City star Benjamin Mendy signs for new club just days after being cleared of rape charges

Former Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy has made a swift return to football, joining Ligue 1 side FC Lorient, less than a week after being cleared of rape and attempted rape charges in England.

Mendy, 28, who last played for Manchester City in August 2021, left the club this summer upon the expiry of his contract and after being cleared of all charges has now made an immediate return to football.

After the not-guilty verdict, Mendy's lawyers said the defender will now go on to rebuild his career and it appears he has not had to wait long for a fresh start. 

There were reports of a potential move to Saudi Arabia but Lorient have now swooped to secure his services.

In a club statement on Wednesday, the Ligue 1 outfit confirmed he has put pen to paper on a two-year contract and will wear the No 5 shirt.