Manchester City star, Benjamin Mendy pictured for the first time as he’s released on bail (photos)

Manchester City defender,  Benjamin Mendy was pictured leaving court today after being released on bail ahead of his rape trial.

The French left-back, 27, had been remanded in custody since his first court appearance in August.

The footballer had spent Christmas at top-security prison Strangeways after being moved from Category B jail HMP Altcourse.

But Mendy, who is is accused of seven counts of rape and one of sexual assault against five women aged over 16, has now been freed on bail.

He was pictured leaving Chester Crown Court in a yellow and green prison jumpsuit while wearing handcuffs.

Judge Patrick Thompson released him during a private hearing today but imposed a list of “stringent” conditions.

He must surrender his passport, live at his home address, and make no contact with complainants.

In October, Mendy was denied bail by a judge at a 50-minute hearing. It was the third bail application Mendy had made.

Mendy, who was last month charged with a seventh rape count, will next appear at Chester Crown Court on January 24 ahead of a provisional trial date on June 27.

The fresh offence relates to a new complainant and is alleged to have taken place in July this year

Mendy was already facing six rape counts against four women when the new charge was added.

Co-defendant Louis Saha Matturie, 40 is accused of six counts of rape and one sexual assault.