MLS bans Messi’s closest ally

The image of Yassine Cheuko, Lionel Messi’s bodyguard since his arrival at Inter Miami, pacing the touchline to prevent anyone from reaching the Argentine star, will no longer be seen during the team’s matches. Cheuko himself revealed that he has been banned from appearing pitch side during league games.

“I spent seven years in Europe working for Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and only six people invaded the pitch. I arrived in the United States, 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,” he said in an interview with House of Highlights.

Additionally, Cheuko expressed his willingness to assist not only Inter Miami but also the entire CONCACAF region, hoping to collaborate on improving security for players and spectators alike.

“I love MLS and CONCACAF, but we need to work together. I love helping. I’m not better than anyone, but I have a lot of experience in Europe. I respect their decision, but I believe we can do better.”

One of the most memorable moments involving Cheuko was when he was knocked down by a pitch invader during Inter Miami’s visit to Panama. He took the incident in stride, even finding humour in it.

It is unclear exactly how long Cheuko has served as Messi’s bodyguard, but he has been working in Europe for at least eight years and has become a key figure in Messi’s inner circle.

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“I feel like I’m part of his family,” Cheuko said a few months ago. “My job is to protect him—not just physically, but also psychologically. He trusts me completely and depends on me, and I give him my full attention. He’s very humble.”

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