By Seyi Babalola
Yassine Cheuko, Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi’s bodyguard, has said that he can no longer assist the player as much as he once did due to his ban by the Major Soccer League (MLS).
Cheuko, a former Navy SEAL, has been working with Messi since his transfer to the United States in 2023.
At the time, it was determined that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner needed personal security in America.
Cheuko has made frequent appearances at MLS games and has chased down fans who have invaded the pitch to get near their athletic idol. Many have been tackled before reaching that point.
MLS has, however, taken to limiting Cheuko’s involvement, as he is now restricted to guarding Messi behind the scenes and is forbidden from stepping foot on the pitch.
He told House of Highlights: “They don’t allow me to be on the field anymore.”
Cheuko, speaking on the problems that MLS face with Messi, added: “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 have already invaded the pitch. There’s a huge problem here. I’m not the problem. Let me help Messi.”