Benjamin Mendy, the former Manchester City defender, has sold his replica World Cup trophy for £46,270. The 32-year-old, who now plays for Polish club Pogon Szczecin, auctioned the trophy, which attracted 38 bids. The item, described as damaged with a crack at the base, came with a certificate signed by Mendy to prove its authenticity.
Life After Football's Top Level
Mendy, who was acquitted of all charges in 2023 after a three-year court ordeal, has had a journeyman career since leaving City. He joined Lorient, then FC Zurich, and in 2025 moved to Pogon Szczecin, where he made only 12 appearances last season.
His finances took a hit during his legal battle, forcing him to sell his Cheshire mansion. He now earns £10,000 every four weeks at Pogon Szczecin, a sharp contrast to the £500,000 per month he earned at City.
Life in Poland
Mendy lives in Szczecin, northwestern Poland, and has been spotted by locals pushing a shopping trolley in a supermarket. He is reportedly viewed as a mentor by younger players and takes part in community initiatives.
Polish football analyst Patryk Jurys said: "I don’t think he’s a loud person anymore. He just looks like a normal member of the club. He’s often used in marketing activities. He doesn’t play much, so the club uses him in different ways off the pitch."
In 2024, Mendy won a legal battle against City, taking home over £11 million in unpaid wages after they were found to have wrongly blocked his salary while he faced charges.
