In court, Manchester City footballer, Benjamin Mendy faced a new allegation of attempted rape. The 27-year-old appeared in Chester Crown Court where a judge ruled the charge against the French international could now be reported. Mendy now faces a total of nine charges, including seven counts of rape involving six alleged victims.
During the pre-trial hearing, Judge Patrick Thompson urged lawyers to ensure there is no delay, setting a trial date for July 25. Mendy, wearing a dark grey suit, white shirt, and black tie, confirmed his identity and leaned towards a French interpreter who sat between him and his co-defendant, Louis Saha Matturie. Another pre-trial hearing was set for March 11.
Mendy, of Prestbury, Cheshire, is accused of nine offences relating to six alleged victims, including seven counts of rape, one of sexual assault, and the latest charge of attempted rape involving a new complainant. Matturie, 40, of Eccles, Salford, is accused of 10 offences involving seven women.
Both defendants were given bail in January after being in custody since their first arrest on August 26 last year. Mendy, who has played for Manchester City since 2017, was suspended by the club in August pending an investigation. The club’s statement at the time indicated that the matter was subject to a legal process and the club could not make further comment until that process was complete.