Nampalys Mendy joins FC Metz on free transfer from Watford

Senegalese-French midfielder Nampalys Mendy has joined FC Metz from Watford on a free transfer, bringing top-flight experience to the Ligue 2 club.

The 34-year-old defensive midfielder completed the move on 31 July 2026 after one season with Watford in the Championship. He has signed a contract with Metz running until 30 June 2027.

Mendy arrives in France following a career that has included spells in England’s Premier League and Championship, as well as Ligue 1. His previous move was also a free transfer, when he joined Watford from Lens on 28 August 2025.

Before moving to Watford, Mendy spent a season without a club after leaving Leicester City at the end of the 2022-23 campaign. He subsequently joined Lens on 4 September 2023, before making the switch to England the following year.

The midfielder has made 164 Ligue 1 appearances and featured 98 times in the Premier League. He has also played in the Championship, European competition and domestic cup football during a senior career that began with Monaco.

Mendy developed at Monaco and made his senior breakthrough with the club before joining Nice on a free transfer in 2013. He moved to Leicester City in 2016 for €15.5m and helped the club win the English FA Cup in 2021.

His honours also include the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal and the French second-tier title with Monaco during the 2012-13 season. Mendy’s international affiliations reflect his Senegalese and French nationality.

At Metz, he adds experience in the defensive midfield position to a squad competing in Ligue 2. His arrival also marks a return to French football after three seasons involving Leicester, a period without a club, Lens and Watford.

Mendy’s career record includes one goal in 164 Ligue 1 appearances and one in 98 Premier League games, while he has also registered assists in both competitions. He has played with his right foot and stands 1.68m tall.

The move sees Mendy leave Watford after a single season and return to the country where he began his professional career. His contract with FC Metz is valid until 30 June 2027.