Maradona accuses ex-wife Claudia Villafane of $9m theft

• Maradona was married to Claudia Villafañe for 10 years

Argentine football legend Diego Maradona has accused his former wife Claudia Villafane of stealing nearly $9m (£6m) from his bank accounts.

Maradona said during a live TV show on Canal America that Ms Villafane, his childhood sweetheart, was "a thief".


"If she did what we fear she did, unfortunately she will have to go to jail," the 54-year-old said.

She denies any wrongdoing. The couple met in a poor neighbourhood of Buenos Aires before Maradona rose to fame.

Their two daughters - Dalma and Giannina - posted messages on Twitter supporting Ms Villafane.

Maradona led Argentina to the World Cup victory in 1986, and is regarded by football fans and experts as one of the greatest players of all time.

• Maradona is currently dating Rocio Oliva 24

 Source: BBC