Lionel Messi's Bodyguard Banned from Touchline In MLS

Major League Soccer (MLS) has prohibited Yassine Cheuko, Lionel Messi's personal bodyguard, from accessing the touchline during Inter Miami's matches. Cheuko, a former U.S. Navy SEAL renowned for his vigilant protection of Messi, will now be restricted to locker rooms and mixed zones on matchdays.

This action aligns with MLS's decision to assume full control over matchday security protocols. Cheuko expressed his dissatisfaction with the ban, highlighting his extensive experience in European football, where he encountered significantly fewer pitch invasion incidents compared to his time in the United States. He emphasized his commitment to Messi's safety and offered his expertise to enhance security measures within MLS and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF).

The controversy intensified following a recent CONCACAF Champions Cup match between Inter Miami and Monterrey. After the game, Messi was involved in a heated exchange with Monterrey's assistant coach, Nico Sanchez, who reportedly made derogatory remarks about Messi. Consequently, CONCACAF imposed sanctions on Inter Miami, including the restriction of Cheuko's access to the field during subsequent matches.