Former Manchester United pair Paul Pogba and Memphis Depay are keen to see Benjamin Mendy back on the pitch.

The ex-Manchester City fullback was cleared of all charges after being found not guilty of rape and attempted rape on Friday.

The World Cup winner wept in the dock as he was unanimously acquitted after jurors deliberated for about three hours and 15 minutes following a two-week trial at Chester Crown Court.

In reaction, Juventus midfielder Pogba posted to social media: "So happy for you bro .. all the people that was talking bad about you. Now I wanna see them cleaning your name. Can't wait to see on the pitch again."

Atletico Madrid attacker Memphis Depay also stated: "Benjamin Mendy All cases dismissed. So what are we doing now?

"Who is going to help this brother heal? Who's going to be Responsable [sic] for the damage on he's [sic] name?

"How he's going to have he's [sic] career back? Many years of investment to become a professional football player…. Now what!?

"I've never touched on this subject because I didn't know all the details, but I've spoken to him once true [sic] FaceTime while behind bars and faced him on the pitch a couple times.. I didn't see any evil in the man.

"We can't accept this to happen to us as athletes.. Who's going to stand up for us in the time of need not when the damage is already done? Don't turn your head people."

Following the verdict, Mendy issued a brief statement through his lawyers.

"It has been almost three years since the police started investigating this matter," the statement read. "Mr Mendy has tried to remain strong but the process has, inevitably had a serious impact on him.

"He thanks everyone who has supported him throughout this ordeal and now asks for privacy so he can begin rebuilding his life."