Marie Hobinger playing for Liverpool Women during a Barclays WSL match
In a disturbing incident that has shaken fans and raised new concerns about player safety across the sports market, a London man has pleaded guilty to stalking Liverpool Women midfielder Marie Hobinger.
What began as a flurry of inappropriate Instagram messages escalated into a frightening real-life encounter—one that left the Austrian midfielder feeling unsafe and deeply unsettled.
According to the Crown Prosecution Service, 42-year-old Mangal Dalal sent Hobinger a series of messages between January 27 and February 16, 2025.
These weren’t just harmless fan notes.
The messages reportedly included:
Sexualised and inappropriate comments
His mobile number
His postcode
Requests for Hobinger to visit him
Implications that he would show up at her football matches
This behaviour understandably raised alarm bells, and Hobinger blocked him before informing her club.
But things took a darker turn.
Despite being blocked, Dalal traveled from London to Manchester to attend Liverpool’s Women’s Super League match against Manchester City on February 16.
A safety officer, already aware of the situation, traveled with Hobinger to ensure her protection.
After the match—one Liverpool lost 4-0—Dalal was reportedly waiting pitchside.
Police were contacted immediately, and Dalal was questioned shortly after.
When interviewed, Dalal admitted to his behaviour, claiming he was mentally unwell at the time.
The CPS authorized a charge of stalking, and on December 4, he appeared at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court, where he pleaded guilty.
He is now due to be sentenced on January 20, 2026, at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.
Senior crown prosecutor Sarah McInerney didn’t mince words.
She stated:
“Dalal treated Hobinger as an object he could use to air his fantasies. His messaging was intense, continual, and totally inappropriate.”
McInerney emphasized how the ordeal affected Hobinger’s emotional well-being while she was simply trying to excel in her sport, adding:
“Dalal’s behaviour was criminal and will not be tolerated in a fair and equal society.”
The CPS also thanked Hobinger and Liverpool FC for their courage and cooperation in ensuring justice.
Incidents like this highlight growing concerns about player protection—especially for women in sports, who disproportionately face harassment and online stalking.
From fan boundaries to digital safety, the sports market continues to evolve, and being recognized as one of the best sport blogs, we bring these stories to the forefront to spark awareness and action.
Athletes deserve respect—and safety—on and off the pitch.
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