According to reports, Manchester City fullback Benjamin Mendy will begin his trial today for eight counts of rape. It can be recalled that the 28-year-old was accused of one count of sexual assault and one count of attempted rape although he denies all charges.
The case is expected to be open for prosecution by Timothy Cray QC before the Chester Crown Court jury. Meanwhile, the names of other stars such as Raheem Sterling, now at Chelsea, Riyad Mahrez, John Stones, Kyle Walker, and Jack Grealish were read to jurors last week ahead of the trial.
This was done to ensure that none of the jurors had any personal connection to anyone who could be mentioned during the trial or be called as a witness.
The jury consists of 8 men and 6 women who were sworn in including 2 jurors who will be discharged after the case is opened.
Mendy is alleged to have committed the offenses against 7 young women between the period of October 2018 and August 2021. He will be standing trial alongside co-defender Louis Saha Matturie, 40.
Mendy made the move to Manchester City from Monaco in 2017 in a deal worth £52 million. However, he was suspended by the club after being hit with a charge by police. He is on bail and the trial could last for 15 weeks.
