Juba Touabi, Media365, published on Wednesday October 2, 2024 at 3:45 p.m.
Since his acquittal of rape and attempted rape charges in July 2023, Benjamin Mendy has been trying to rebuild his career.
Shortly after his release by British justice, the former French international signed a two-year contract with FC Lorient, marking his return to the football fields after a two-year absence. In September 2023, Benjamin Mendy takes his first steps in the Lorient jersey, but his playing time remains limited. In the space of a few months, the defender only played 15 matches. Beyond his sporting performance, his behavior within the group was a source of tension. A fragile relationship with his teammates and a difficult integration quickly undermined his future in the team.
The past season proved disastrous for FC Lorient, ending in relegation to Ligue 2. As the club attempted to restructure, Benjamin Mendy was sidelined with a thigh injury, which he suffered chose to receive treatment abroad. His prolonged absence only exacerbated tensions between the player and the club, reinforcing the idea that he was no longer part of coach Olivier Pantaloni’s sporting plans.
Mendy must make a decision
Since his return from injury, the left-back is now training alone at the Kerlir training center, a situation revealing his isolation within the club. While several players left Lorient following relegation, Benjamin Mendy remained, although several Saudi clubs showed interest in the French international. Despite this, no transfer has been finalized, further plunging the former Manchester City player into uncertainty.
FC Lorient now seems ready to consider an amicable termination of the contract which binds the 30-year-old defender to the club until June 2025, according to information from Ouest-France. A decision which would put an end to an increasingly uncomfortable situation for both parties. This separation could be a turning point for Benjamin Mendy, allowing him to turn to new horizons. The path to return to the highest level promises to be strewn with pitfalls for the former French international.
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