Algerian international Riyad Mahrez, now a player for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, proved to be a major support for his former Manchester City teammate Benjamin Mendy during one of the darkest periods in the club’s life. the latter. Wrongly accused of rape and sexual assault, Mendy went through a real ordeal which lasted almost two years before the courts declared him innocent in July 2023.
Mendywhich now evolves to Lorient in French League 2, revealed that several of his former teammates in the Skyblues, dont Mahrez, helped him get through this period. Due to his indictment in September 2021, Manchester City had stopped paying him his salaries, which had plunged the French defender into a financial crisis. He then had to face significant legal costs, while trying to provide for his family.
In a statement shared with the press, Mendy mentioned the crucial role of Riyad Mahrez, as well as that of Raheem Sterling et Bernardo Silvain its financial support: “I struggled to pay my child support and cover my legal costs. Riyad Mahrez, Raheem Sterling and Bernardo Silva lent me money to help me get through this ordeal. » The Fennec therefore did not hesitate to support his friend and former teammate when he needed it most.
A new start for Mendy
Now cleared of the charges, Mendy seeks to turn the page and rebuild his career. His return to football with Lorient allows him to gradually regain his feelings, even if the emotional and financial impact of this ordeal still remains present.
As for Riyad Mahrezits transition to Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia marks a new stage in his career, but his unwavering support for the French player underlines a facet of his personality which goes well beyond success on the field.
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