Ex-West Ham star pleads guilty after his 'dangerous dogs' attacked golden retriever and its owner

Former West Ham United star Said Benrahma has pleaded guilty to owning 'dangerously out of control dogs' following an attack over two years ago. The 30-year-old admitted guilty to two charges at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Thursday and has also been fined £12,000.

The incident in July 2023 saw a golden retriever and its owner attacked. Benrahma's XL Bully - a breed which has been banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 since December 2023 - was said to have injured Luke Rehbin while out of control at his home. A second charge also relates to the winger's American bulldog being involved in the incident.

Mr Rehbun suffered grazes to his arms and legs after grappling with the dogs on the ground. Meanwhile, his dog needed vet treatment.

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Benrahma revealed that the dogs had escaped from a side gate which had been left open by someone working for him. The Algerian appeared at court via video link from a car in Saudi Arabia.

District Judge Matt Jabbitt claimed the incident must have been "very distressing" for Mr Rehbin. He then fined Benrahma £5,000 for each of the attacks, ordered him to pay £2,500 compensation to Mr Rehbin plus £495 kennel costs.

Benrahma arrived in England in 2018 as he joined Brentford from French Ligue 1 side Nice. He then moved to West Ham two years later where he scored 24 goals in 155 games for the Hammers.

The 30-year-old helped David Moyes' side win the Europa Conference League before he eventually left the London Stadium in 2024 with a switch to Lyon.

Benrahma issued an emotional goodbye message when he left the Hammers. "It's time to say goodbye to this club, which has meant a lot to me," he said at the time, alongside a video compilation.

"I've spent many emotional moments and found much happiness within this institution.

"I would like to thank the club, the staff, and the supporters for the warm welcome and unwavering support I have received throughout my history with West Ham.

"I have experienced great moments within this club, and I wish the best to the club."

Benrahma has been plying his trade in Saudi Arabia since January having joined Neom SC.

The forward regularly shared pictures of his dogs during his time in East London. The dogs in question are called Ghost and Cali.