Benjamin Mendy’s attempt to rebuild his footballing career has hit another roadblock.
The former Manchester City defender has been released by Swiss side FC Zurich just eight months into a contract that was initially set to run until the summer of 2026.
Benjamin Mendy sacked by Swiss club after just 8 months
Mendy, who signed for Zurich in February 2025 after a short stint at French club Lorient, managed fewer than 10 appearances in what has now become another short-lived chapter.
The termination of his deal was announced by mutual consent, with the club issuing a brief but telling statement:
“FC Zurich announces that the contract with French defender Benjamin Mendy has been terminated by mutual consent. He is leaving the city club with immediate effect. FCZ wishes Benjamin Mendy all the best for his private and sporting future.”
Why was Benjamin Mendy sacked?
But behind the formality of the statement lies a more complex story. According to Mundo Deportivo, the decision came after a series of off-field incidents that reportedly tested the patience of Zurich’s top brass.
The most notable flashpoint was said to be a party Mendy attended just hours after Zurich suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat at the hands of their fierce rivals, FC Basel, a move that didn’t sit well with the club hierarchy.
Zurich president Ancillo Canepa didn’t hold back when reflecting on the defender’s time at the club.
“It’s certainly not what we expected. Mentally and physically, he wasn’t at his best at all — played very badly, conceded goals, and got injured. All in all, it wasn’t a happy story,” Canepa admitted.
Benjamin Mendy: From Man City to the abyss
For Mendy, the Zurich spell was meant to be a fresh start after years of turmoil. His career took a sharp turn in 2021 when he was suspended by Manchester City following a series of serious allegations.
After a lengthy legal battle, Mendy was cleared of all charges: six counts of rape and one of sexual assault, followed by a retrial in 2023 where he was acquitted of a further rape charge and one attempted rape.
Following his legal vindication, Mendy pursued justice off the pitch as well, winning a tribunal case against City over unpaid wages. The court ruled in his favour, granting him the majority of the salary owed during his suspension.
Looking to move forward, he joined Lorient but made only 15 appearances before heading to Zurich, per Transfermarkt, a move that, in hindsight, offered little of the stability and revival he may have hoped for.
During his time at Manchester City, Mendy made 75 appearances and lifted three Premier League titles under Pep Guardiola in 2018, 2019, and 2021.