Why is the personal bodyguard of Lionel Messi to score in Inter Miami’s matches? – Firstpost

The Lionel Messi’s bodyguard of confidence, Yassine Cheuko, was a familiar figure in Inter Miami’s matches since the arrival of the Argentinian superstar in the major football leagues (MLS) in 2023. However, for the 2025 season, the presence of Cheuko on the lateral line was restricted, a decision that left it and frustrated. But why has this decision been made, and what does it mean for security around one of the largest football icons?

Cheuko’s role in the protection of Messi

Since Messi’s passage to MLS, Cheuko, a mixed martial artist, has been responsible for ensuring his safety. Videos of him closely watching the crowd and chasing the pitch invaders have become viral several times.

In an interview House of HighlightsCheuko expressed his disappointment to be withdrawn from the key lines:

“They no longer allow me to be on the ground. I was in Europe for seven years, working for Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and only six people invaded the field. I came to the United States, and in just 20 months, 16 people have already done so. There is a huge problem here. I’m not the problem. Let me help Messi. “

Why was Cheuko banished from the sidelines?

Despite the speculations that this could have been a decision of the MLS, Inter Miami confirmed that it was the club itself which decided to limit the cheuko movements on the key line.

A spokesperson for Inter Miami said Espn The fact that Cheuko remains employed by the club and is still part of the security details. However, its presence on the key line has been reduced, and is now parked either in a private box or in the tunnel leading to the field.

Messi and Cheuko dissatisfied with the decision

Cheuko’s dismissal would not have lowered well with Messi. A source told Athletics: “This was the case all year round. (Lionel and Yassine) are completely upset – (Yassine) has always been really critical of all other security (through MLS) and suggested that if they were good in their work, it would not even be necessary.”

Cheuko thinks that his experience in European football should be better used in MLS: “I love MLS and Concacaf, but we have to work together. I love to help. I’m not better than anyone, but I have a rich experience in Europe. It’s good, I understand their decision, but I think we could do better. ”

What is the next step for Messi?

Inter Miami and Messi returned to the action for the first stage of the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF 2025 Champions Cup against Lafc. They lost the 1-0 match with a 57-minute goal from Nathan Ordaz. The second floor should take place on April 10. Before the crucial meeting, Miami will welcome Toronto in an MLS match on April 7.