Not Guilty! Ex-Man City star Benjamin Mendy breaks down in tears after becoming a free man
The former Manchester City defender was accused of carrying out violent sexual attacks on two women at his Manchester mansion.
After three hours of proceedings at Chester Crown Court, the 28-year-old broke down in tears after receiving the not-guilty verdict.
Mendy weeps after being cleared of rape
According to the DailyMail, Jenny Wiltshire, Mendy's attorney said:
"Benjamin Mendy would like to thank the members of the jury for focussing on the evidence in this trial, rather than on the rumour and innuendo that have followed this case from the outset."
What next for Mendy?
Mendy's contract with Manchester City expired on July 1 which means he is currently without a club. He is still only 28 which means a return t football is a strong possibility.
Mendy's lawyers said the former France international will now look to "rebuild his life".
The player himself declined to comment, but did say 'Alhamdulillah' - an Arabic phrase meaning: 'Praise be to God'.