Messi’s bodyguard banned from MLS sidelines
Lionel Messi’s bodyguard Yassine Cheuko has been banned from protecting the Argentina forward from the touchline during Inter Miami matches.
Cheuko gained widespread recognition after social media videos showed him closely watching the crowd to stop potential pitch invaders from harming the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
MLS has decided to take full control of matchday security, though, and Cheuko will be permitted only in the locker room and mixed zones.
“They don’t allow me to be on the field anymore,” the bodyguard told Spanish media.
“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.”
Cheuko said he will continue to work on Messi’s personal security team outside of the stadiums.
This story includes a correction from Reuters, which had previously said that Cheuko was a former Navy SEAL.
