Liverpool star hires bodyguard after being harassed by millionaire

The situation began when Mangal Dalal repeatedly sent Höbinger sexually explicit messages on Instagram in January this year. Some of the messages included threats and persistent demands that she visit him. Feeling terrified, she reported the behaviour to Liverpool’s management and hired a bodyguard to protect her during Women’s Super League matches.

In February, Dalal even travelled from London to watch Höbinger play against Manchester City. After the match, he waited for her outside the stadium, but fortunately, a staff member recognised him and alerted Liverpool security. Police were called, and Dalal was arrested.

At the police station, Dalal admitted to stalking but claimed he was suffering from psychological issues. He was later released on bail under the condition that he must not contact Höbinger. The case is scheduled to return to court on January 20th at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, where a decision will be made regarding his punishment.

Judge James Clarke commented on the case: “I have read the documents and I do not consider this case suitable for a fine. I am also concerned that the matter was previously adjourned for a psychiatric report. I would like the probation service to assess whether there is anything they would recommend.”

The court added: “Mangal Dalal targeted Marie and treated her as an object to satisfy his desires. His actions were illegal and will not be tolerated in a fair and equal society.”

Marie Höbinger is an Austrian midfielder born in 2001 who started her football career early. She joined German women’s club Turbine Potsdam, progressing from their academy to the first team in 2019. Höbinger signed for Liverpool in 2023 and extended her contract earlier this year. She has scored 8 goals in 46 appearances across all competitions.

This season has not gone well for Marie Höbinger or Liverpool’s women’s team. After nine matches, they have yet to win a game, recording two draws and seven losses, and currently sit bottom of the table. In their upcoming fixtures, they will face Aston Villa and then West Ham, before taking on Chelsea in the quarter-finals of the Women’s League Cup on December 21st.