Argentine prosecutors on Thursday urged prison sentences of up to 12 years for seven medical professionals accused in the death of football icon Diego Maradona. The trial, which began in April, centers on allegations that the medical team provided grossly inadequate care to the football legend in the weeks leading up to his death on November 25, 2020.

Maradona, 60, died of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema at a rented home in the Buenos Aires suburb of Tigre, two weeks after undergoing surgery for a brain clot. A celebrated figure, particularly for his role in Argentina's 1986 World Cup victory, Maradona had a history of substance abuse. His death has led to intense scrutiny of his final medical care.

Prosecutors argued that the "chaotic organization" of Maradona's medical team left him in a "helpless situation, abandoning him to his fate." They accused the defendants of breaching their duties, acting contrary to medical practices, and omitting necessary actions. The prosecution highlighted the decision to allow Maradona to convalesce at home rather than a hospital, and the alleged lack of essential medical equipment like a hospital bed or readily available ambulance, as evidence of negligence.

Seven medical professionals, including Maradona's personal physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, and nurses, have been on trial. They have denied the charges, contending that Maradona's death was unforeseeable and that they performed their duties appropriately. The legal concept of "dolo eventual" is central to the case, implying that the defendants were aware their actions could cause harm but proceeded regardless.

The highest sentence sought, 12 years, is for Maradona's personal physician, Leopoldo Luque. Other requested sentences range from four to 10 years for the remaining medical staff. Each defendant has sought to minimize their individual responsibility for Maradona's care, emphasizing his complex medical history and personal choices.

Expert testimonies presented during the trial suggested that Maradona's caregivers failed to recognize and react to critical warning signs, including edema, rapid heart rate, and breathing difficulties. These alleged oversights form a key part of the prosecution's case, painting a picture of a patient whose deteriorating condition was not adequately managed.

The case has captivated Argentina and the global football community, raising questions about the standards of care for high-profile individuals and the responsibilities of their medical entourages. The defense has focused on the inherent difficulties in treating a patient with Maradona's complex history and the challenges of providing intensive care in a non-hospital setting.

The court is expected to deliberate on the evidence presented by both the prosecution and defense teams. The outcome could have significant implications for medical malpractice law and the accountability of healthcare providers in complex, high-profile cases.