[Saba Sports News] According to British media reports, 31-year-old former Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy now plays for Polish club Pogoń Szczecin, earning a monthly salary of just £10,000 — a stark contrast to his £500,000 monthly wage back in his Premier League days. Once the world’s most expensive defender, Mendy joined Manchester City from Monaco for a transfer fee of £52 million in 2017 and was part of France’s squad that lifted the 2018 FIFA World Cup. However, parties held at his mansion in Cheshire led to him facing eight charges of rape and sexual assault. After two trials, he was acquitted in July 2023 and broke down in tears in court. Manchester City held Mendy accountable for the controversy he caused and cut ties with him afterwards. He first moved to French Ligue 1 side Lorient, where feminist groups and fans unfurled banners reading “No rapists allowed” at stadiums. He made only 15 appearances there. His next move to Zurich was also marred by protests, and his contract was terminated five months later. He finally joined Pogoń Szczecin last summer.
The editor believes that though Mendy has made limited appearances for the Polish club due to injuries and poor form, he has been used as a marketing asset by the team. He is also working to rebuild his public image by coaching young players at the academy and visiting local schools. Local sports journalists note that he is always happy to take selfies with fans, and people rarely bring up his troubled past.