Inter Miami’s Messi bodyguard is banned from MLS matches and expresses his dissatisfaction

The bodyguard of Inter Miami star Lionel Messi was banned from attending MLS matches and showed his displeasure with the decision.

One of the intriguing off-field spectacles of watching Lionel Messi in action has been the anticipation of what might happen beyond the pitch. Would a fan rush onto the field for a selfie? Would intruders attempt to get close to the Argentine star? In all those moments, one man was always on high alert—Messi’s personal bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko. However, it has now been confirmed that Cheuko has been banned from entering MLS matches, meaning he will no longer be seen on the sidelines at Inter Miami games.

Yassine Cheuko will no longer be allowed to accompany Messi on the field during MLS or Concacaf Champions Cup matches. The decision has become a major talking point at Inter Miami, placing Messi once again at the center of controversy. Cheuko addressed the situation in a video posted by House of Highlights on social media.

“I’m no longer allowed on the field,” Cheuko stated. He then went on to express his frustration over the matter. “I worked in Europe for seven years in Ligue 1 and the Champions League. In that time, only six people invaded the field. Since I arrived in the U.S., in just 20 months, there have been 16 invasions,” said the former military operative, visibly frustrated.

Cheuko didn’t stop there. “There is a huge problem here. I’m not the problem—let me help Leo. I love MLS and Concacaf, but we need to work together. I love helping. I’m not better than anyone, but I have my experience from Europe,” he added. However, he also acknowledged the league’s ruling, saying, “I understand the decision.”

Where did this ban originate?

Cheuko’s ban became more evident during Inter Miami’s soccer Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinal match against Monterrey on April 10, 2024, when he was barred from entering the field. The decision followed an incident in the first leg, where Messi—who was sidelined due to injury—confronted Monterrey’s coaching staff over refereeing decisions.

Cheuko was involved in the altercation, leading to his restriction from the field. Moving forward, he will only be allowed access to locker rooms and mixed zones.

What does this mean for Messi’s security?

With Messi now without his personal security detail on the sidelines, his time in MLS enters a new chapter. The absence of Cheuko could raise concerns about potential safety risks, as pitch invaders might feel emboldened to approach Messi knowing that his bodyguard is no longer patrolling the field.

Credit: Bolavip US