French footballer Benjamin Mendy has won a major legal battle against Manchester City, securing a significant portion of nearly £11 million in unpaid wages after a tribunal ruled in his favor. The former Manchester City defender had been acquitted of serious charges, including six counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, with the court finding insufficient evidence to support the allegations.
Manchester City suspended Mendy’s salary during the legal proceedings, as the defender was unable to participate in training or matches. Without his regular income, Mendy reportedly struggled financially. He had to sell his Cheshire property and rely on financial support from former teammates to cover his legal expenses, daily living costs, and child support.
Following the tribunal’s decision, Mendy will receive a majority, though not the full amount, of the withheld wages. The tribunal explained, “Mr Mendy will be entitled to receive the majority of his unpaid salary, although not all of it.” However, the exact sum is yet to be finalized. Further negotiations with the club are expected, and if no agreement is reached, another hearing may be scheduled.
Judge Joanne Dunlop noted that Manchester City had a legal right to withhold Mendy’s salary during the five months he spent in custody. This period accounted for part of the 22 months covered in his claim.
