Former Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy has been released by Swiss club Zurich after just eight games, following criticism from the club’s management.
The 31-year-old joined Zurich in February on a contract that would keep him until the summer of 2026, but left a year early.
According to Sports world, the club has been angered by Mendy’s off-field behaviour, especially when he is alleged to have celebrated just hours after a 4-0 defeat to rivals Basel in April.
“FC Zurich announces that the contract with French defender Benjamin Mendy has been terminated by mutual agreement.”
“He leaves the club with immediate effect. FCZ wishes Benjamin Mendy all the best in his personal and sporting future,” the club’s official statement said.
After the loss against Basel, coach Ricardo Moniz had ‘exploded’ in criticism of the Frenchman.
“Mendy did not perform at the level expected of a player of his calibre. His physical condition was not up to the standards we expect for a player in this league.”
“After a 4-0 defeat, you can’t behave that way towards the fans,” he said.
Mendy has been trying to rebuild his career after being initially suspended by Manchester City in August 2021, when he was subsequently accused of rape and sexual assault.Telegraph/