Lionel Messi’s bodyguard banned from MLS sidelines
Lionel Messi’s bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko, confirmed that he has been banned from the sidelines at MLS games.
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Messi’s bodyguard banned from MLS sidelines
Cheuko has become a fixture of Inter Miami games since Messi joined the club in 2023.
The bodyguard gained widespread recognition after social media videos showed him closely monitoring the crowd to prevent potential pitch invaders from harming the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
“They don’t allow me to be on the field anymore,” the bodyguard said in an interview with social media channel House of Highlights.
“I was in Europe for seven years, working for Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and only six people invaded the pitch.
“I came to the USA and in just 20 months, 16 people have already done so. There’s a huge problem here. I’m not the problem. Let me help Messi.”
Inter Miami, MLS speak on Cheuko’s ban
An Inter Miami spokesperson told ESPN that the club, not MLS, decided to keep Cheuko off the sidelines. However, the club still employs him as part of the security detail.
Major League Soccer stated that it has not updated its policies or protocols regarding team security guards stationed on the field.
Despite this recent development, Cheuko remains eager to collaborate with MLS and CONCACAF to find a more cooperative solution to Messi’s unique security needs.
“I love MLS and CONCACAF, but we need to work together,” Cheuko said.
“I love helping. I’m not better than anyone, but I have a lot of experience in Europe. I respect their decision, but I believe we can do better.”
