World champion auctions off memorabilia as controversial Frenchman sells World Cup replica for €54,000
Former France national team defender Benjamin Mendy has auctioned off his official replica of the 2018 FIFA World Cup trophy. According to Goal.com, the commemorative prize fetched approximately €54,000.
The World Cup replica was awarded to Mendy after France's triumph at the 2018 tournament. The auction lot also included a certificate of authenticity and the footballer's own signature.
As a reminder, Mendy's career took a dramatic turn following a high-profile legal scandal. In August 2021, the defender was arrested in England on charges of rape and sexual assault. Due to the ongoing investigation, Manchester City suspended him from training and matches, and his contract eventually expired.
In 2023, Mendy was acquitted of all major charges, after which he won a legal dispute with Manchester City over a portion of unpaid wages. Nevertheless, the Frenchman was unable to restore his career to its former heights.
After leaving the English club, the defender played for France's Lorient and Switzerland's Zurich, and he is currently representing Polish side Pogoń Szczecin.
According to The Sun, after earning millions in the Premier League, Mendy's financial situation has significantly deteriorated, prompting him to sell off some of his possessions in the past.
Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
