Yassine Cheuko, the personal bodyguard of Inter Miami star Lionel Messi, has revealed that he can no longer assist the player as much as before due to a ban imposed by Major League Soccer (MLS).
Cheuko, a former Navy SEAL, has been Messi’s security detail since the footballer’s move to the U.S. in 2023. Given Messi’s global stature, it was deemed necessary for him to have personal security while in America.
During MLS matches, Cheuko has frequently intervened to stop pitch invaders attempting to approach the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. Many fans have been tackled before reaching Messi.
However, MLS has now restricted Cheuko’s role, allowing him to guard Messi only behind the scenes and barring him from stepping onto the pitch.
Speaking to House of Highlights, Cheuko confirmed the restrictions, saying:
“They don’t allow me to be on the field anymore.”
Discussing the security challenges MLS faces, he added:
“I spent seven years in Europe, working for Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and only six people invaded the pitch.
In just 20 months in the U.S., 16 people have already stormed the field. There’s a huge problem here. I’m not the problem. Let me help Messi.”