A FOOTBALL star hired a bodyguard because she was being stalked by a millionaire, a court heard.
Liverpool midfielder Marie Höbinger, 24, was terrified when businessman Mangal Dalal, 42, repeatedly sent her sex messages on Instagram.
They included his mobile number and he asked her to visit him.
The worried Austrian international appointed a ‘‘safety officer” to ferry her to and from Women’s Super League matches.
In February Dalal travelled from London to watch Höbinger play Man City at the Etihad.
Cops were called when he was spotted waiting for her by the pitch.
Divorced Dalal, of Marylebone, admits stalking but says he was mentally unwell at the time.
Liverpool JPs bailed him for sentencing in January and told him not to contact Marie or mention her on social media.
District Judge James Clarke adjourned the case and said: “I have read the documents and I would not think this case is appropriate for a fine.
“I am also concerned the matter was previously adjourned for a psychiatric report. I would like the probation service to assess to see if there is anything that they would recommend.”
The case was transferred the case to Westminster Magistrates Court for a sentencing hearing on January 20.
Hobinger, 24, joined Liverpool FC Women in July 2023 from FC Zurich Frauen, where she won two league titles and a Swiss Women’s cup.
