Lionel Messi’s bodyguard banned by MLS

Yassine Cheuko, the bodyguard to Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi, has revealed he is no longer able to help the player as much as he did before as he has been banned by the Major Soccer League, MLS.

Cheuko, who is a former Navy SEAL, has been working with Messi since he completed a move to the US in 2023.

At the time, it was decided that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner needed personal security in America.

Cheuko has made regular appearances during MLS games and has severally chased down the pitch-invading fans, who were desperate to get close to their sporting idol. Many have been tackled before making it that far.

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.”