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The MLS authority has decided to restrict Cheuko’s involvement during league matches and the former Navy SEAL has been banned from being on the field during the 90-minute play.
Lionel Messi and his bodyguard Yassine Cheuko. (X)
Lionel Messi’s bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko, is no longer allowed to stay on the sidelines when MLS matches are underway. Cheuko, a former US soldier, took up the job in 2021 when Messi shifted his base to Florida, joining Inter Miami. His duties, however, were not limited to personal security. Over the last few years, Cheuko has protected Messi from many passionate fans who invaded the pitch to meet their idol. The MLS authority has now decided to restrict Cheuko’s involvement during league matches. He has been banned from being on the field during the 90-minute play.
Cheuko expressed his discontent over the decision in a recent chat with ‘House of Highlights’. “They don’t allow me to be on the field anymore,” the ex-Navy SEAL confirmed, as quoted by GOAL.
Cheuko further explained why Messi needed a personal bodyguard after relocating to the US. “I was in Europe for seven years working for Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and only six people invaded the pitch. I arrived in the United States, and in 20 months of work, 16 people had already invaded the pitch. There’s a huge problem here,” he said.
“I’m not the problem. Let me help Messi. I love MLS and CONCACAF, but we have to work together. I love helping. I’m not better than anyone, but I have a wealth of experience in Europe. It’s fine, I understand their decision, but I think we could do better,” Cheuko added.
During the interaction, Cheuko also opened up about his bond with Messi. Apart from the Argentine footballer, he also oversees the security of his wife and children.
“I feel like I’m part of his family, and I’m working hard to protect him, not only physically but also psychologically because he trusts me a lot and depends on me, and I give him all my attention. He’s very humble,” Cheuko said.
Messi featured in Inter Miami’s recent MLS game against the Philadelphia Union. He found the net just two minutes after coming in as a substitute, with the Herons registering a 2-1 victory in the home fixture. Messi will return to action when Inter Miami face LAFC in the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-finals on April 3.