Ex-Rangers star appears in court accused of raping and threatening to kill ex-wife
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FORMER Rangers star Claudio Caniggia has appeared in court in Argentina - after being accused of sexual abuse by his ex-wife.
Caniggia, 55, helped Gers win an SPL title, two Scottish Cups and two League Cups after a 2001 move from Dundee.
The former Argentina striker was married to Mariana Nannis for 31 years, and they have three children together.
However they split in 2019 after he got together with model Sofia Bonelli - who he wed that year.
Mariana accused the ex-footballer in 2020 of having raped and threatened to kill her in a hotel room in May 2018.
Prosecutor Carlos Velarde told the court: "Caniggia intended to have sexual relations with his then wife, Mariana Nannis.
"But when she refused he threatened to kill her and swore at her.
"He aimed punches at her face, which missed, and finally struck her arms and hands.
"Sexual abuse then took place against her will. Witnesses support the victim's version of events."
Former World Cup star Caniggia attended Tuesday's hearing via Zoom link.
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Buenos Aires daily La Nacion reported he denied the allegations, and accused Mariana of inventing the entire story.
He has also stated his intent to sue his ex for making false accusations.
The case continues.
Caniggia scored seven goals in 21 Dundee appearances following his 2000 arrival from Atalanta.
He went on to strike 12 times in 50 games for Rangers.
The much-travelled star also played for River Plate, Hellas Verona, Roma, Benfica, Boca Juniors and Qatar SC.
He ended his playing career in 2012 in England with Wembley FC.
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