Diego Maradona has interrupted his treatment for drug addiction in Cuba to return to Argentina for Christmas. The Argentine legend is said to be going against medical advice by returning home.
The 44-year-old's confinement to a psychiatric hospital after a relapse sparked bitter court battles with his family, who wanted him treated at home.
He was admitted to hospital in April, suffering from a weakened heart and severe breathing problems.
The World Cup winner has insisted he prefers treatments in Cuba as it offers greater privacy.
But he was warned he could be ordered to leave the island if he fails to stick to a court-ordered treatment plan, with Cuba president Fidel Castro believed to be ready to play a tough paternal role to help Maradona cure his addiction.
Maradona has spent much of the past four years in various hospitals and institutions to try to cure his cocaine addiction and other health ailments.