Benjamin Mendy, the former Manchester City defender, has filed a claim for unpaid wages amounting to £11.5 million ($15 million) against the Premier League champions. Mendy’s legal battle stems from his arrest and subsequent charges of rape and sexual assault in 2021.
After being charged, Manchester City suspended Mendy’s wages, citing his bail conditions and Football Association suspension. However, Mendy claims that a senior City official assured him that he would receive his unpaid wages once he was cleared of the charges.
In January 2023, Mendy was found not guilty of six counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. However, the jury could not reach a verdict on another count of rape and one count of attempted rape. A retrial was held, and Mendy was acquitted of both charges.
Mendy’s financial situation deteriorated rapidly after his wages were withheld. He was forced to sell his Cheshire mansion to cover legal fees, bills, and child support payments. In a witness statement, Mendy revealed that he had to borrow money from teammates Raheem Sterling, Bernardo Silva, and Riyad Mahrez to support his family.
Mendy’s employment tribunal is expected to last for two days. He argues that he is entitled to the unpaid wages he would have earned if he had not been falsely arrested. Manchester City, on the other hand, maintains that they were not obligated to pay Mendy’s wages due to his suspension and inability to perform his duties as a player.
Mendy’s case highlights the complex legal and financial challenges faced by athletes who are accused of serious crimes. The outcome of the tribunal will have implications for both Mendy and Manchester City, as well as for other clubs and players who may find themselves in similar situations in the future.
