Marie Hobinger, a 24-year-old midfielder for the Liverpool women's team, has been subjected to persistent harassment and stalking by London millionaire Mangal Dalal, 42. The ordeal has severely affected her safety and mental state, leading her to seek bodyguard protection at matches. Dalal sent sexualized messages to Hobinger on Instagram, reportedly sharing his phone number and postal code, repeatedly inviting her to meet, and hinting at attending her games.

Marie Hobinger received the Player of the Month award for October 2023. *Photo: Liverpool FC*.

After Hobinger reported the incidents to Liverpool Football Club and blocked Dalal's contact, he traveled over 320 km from London to Manchester on 16/2. Dalal attended a match between Liverpool and Man City at Joie Stadium, positioning himself near the touchline after the game. Security personnel identified him, and police were called for questioning. Dalal admitted to the stalking behavior, attributing it to mental health issues.

Dalal, who is divorced and owns a USD 5 million home in Marylebone, London, was granted bail by Sefton court in Liverpool. The conditions include a ban on contacting Hobinger or posting any information about her on social media. His case is scheduled to be transferred to Westminster court next January.

According to the indictment, Dalal stalked Hobinger between 27/1 and 16/2, 2025, knowing or having reason to know his actions constituted harassment. This included consistently sending sexualized messages and appearing at one of her matches. Prosecutor Sarah McInerney stated, "Hobinger is a talented professional athlete. Dalal treated her as an object to fulfill his fantasies. His messages were relentless, aggressive, and completely inappropriate, severely impacting Hobinger, who simply wishes to perform to her best ability in a team and sport she loves."

British businessman Mangal Dalal, 42, shared his mobile number and postal code, and invited Marie Hobinger to visit him. *Photo: Cavendish Press*.

The court also heard about Dalal's previous incidents in London, with defense lawyer Daniel Lister noting that Dalal had contacted emergency service 111 for mental health assistance and had received treatment. Lister argued, "He has no prior convictions. Is a suspended sentence and probation truly necessary? He is unlikely to re-offend."

However, Judge James Clarke requested consultation with the prosecution before making a final decision, emphasizing that a mere fine would not be a sufficient deterrent in this case.

Hobinger joined Liverpool from FC Zurich Frauen in 7/2023, where she won two national championships and the Swiss Cup. She sustained a cruciate ligament injury in 10/2023, which will keep her out for the remainder of the season.

Hong Duy (via Daily Mail)