Lionel Messi’s trusted bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko, has revealed that Inter Miami have banned him from walking along the sidelines during the club's matches.
In an interview with House of Highlights, Cheuko opened up about the challenges he has faced since moving to the U.S. and the impact the ban has on his ability to protect Messi during games.
Lionel Messi's bodyguard banned by MLS, he reveals
Cheuko, who had spent seven years in Europe working with top-tier clubs in France and in the UEFA Champions League, open up on the ban.
"They no longer allow me to be on the field," Cheuko said. "I was in Europe working for Ligue 1 and the Champions League for seven years, only six people got on the field. I arrived in the United States, in the 20 months that I have been [working for Inter Miami], 16 people have gotten in, there is a huge problem here, I am not the problem, let me help [Messi]."
Inter Miami confirms this was a club decision for Lionel Messi's bodyguard Yassine Cheuko to no longer be on the field during games https://t.co/w5bbrGURoz
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) April 2, 2025
The bodyguard, who has developed a strong rapport with Messi, expressed his growing appreciation for the league, but emphasized the need for collaboration in ensuring player safety.
"I love MLS and CONCACAF, but we have to work together. I love helping, I'm not better than anyone, but I have my experience from Europe," Cheuko explained. "But, I understand the decision" he added.
Since Lionel Messi's arrival to MLS with Inter Miami in 2023, Cheuko has grown a prominent social media following, with the bodyguard going viral after multiple instances of having to intervene and stop fans from reaching the Argentine legend on the field.
♂️ During Inter Miami matches, Leo Messi is followed by an ex-US Navy Seal for maximum security.
The bodyguard is a martial arts, boxer and taekwondo expert. He can be seen even following him during matches. pic.twitter.com/Gl8n1UzHXV— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) August 24, 2023
