Argentinian soccer superstar, Lionel Messi, has found himself at the centre of controversy as his personal bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko, has been banned from the sidelines during Inter Miami’s Major League Soccer (MLS) games. Cheuko expressed his plea to MLS officials to be allowed to continue protecting Messi during matches as he raised concerns about fan invasions on the field. The decision to exclude Cheuko from the sidelines has sparked discussions about player safety and security measures within the league.
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Inter Miami, Messi’s team, confirmed that it was their choice to prevent Cheuko from being on the pitch, opting to utilise their own security team to handle crowd control. Despite this decision, Cheuko remains an employee of Inter Miami and is permitted to continue his duties protecting Messi in other areas of the stadium. The absence of Messi’s long-standing bodyguard on the sidelines has not gone unnoticed, leading to speculation and unease within the team and among fans.
Messi’s move to the MLS in 2023 marked a significant moment in the league’s history, with the renowned footballer bringing his talent and star power to the U.S. soccer scene. Despite enjoying a more peaceful daily life in Southern Florida away from the pitch, the soccer icon has faced heightened attention and excitement from fans during games. Cheuko highlighted the stark difference in fan behaviour between Europe and the USA, expressing concerns over the increasing number of pitch invasions in American matches.
The reported tension between Messi and his bodyguard over the security arrangements reflects the importance of player protection in high-profile sporting events. Sources within the team revealed that both Messi and Cheuko are displeased with the current situation, with the bodyguard previously emphasising the need for efficient security measures within the stadium. The ongoing dispute raises questions about the balance between ensuring player safety and maintaining a positive fan experience during matches.
Despite the off-field distractions, Messi has remained focused on his performance on the pitch, delivering noteworthy results for Inter Miami. His outstanding contributions in the 2025 season have showcased his exceptional skill and commitment to the team, with two goals and two assists in the opening games. The football legend’s remarkable impact on the MLS has not gone unnoticed, with his arrival heralded as a transformative moment by fans and stakeholders in the soccer community.
The exclusion of Messi’s bodyguard from the sidelines serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics at play in ensuring player security and fan engagement in professional sports. As discussions continue about the best approach to maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all involved, the focus remains on striking a balance that prioritises both player protection and spectator experience. The ongoing saga involving Messi and his bodyguard underscores the challenges faced in managing the security aspects of major sporting events and the need for effective solutions to preserve the integrity of the game.