by Lionel Messi’s bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko, has been prohibited from entering the field during matches, a decision that has sparked discussions about security protocols in Major League Soccer (MLS). Cheuko, a former U.S. Navy SEAL with extensive experience in European football security, expressed his frustration in an interview with ‘House of Highlights.’ He highlighted the disparity in pitch invasions, noting that during his seven years in Europe, there were only six incidents, whereas in the United States, there have been 16 invasions in just 20 months. Cheuko emphasized his willingness to collaborate with MLS and Concacaf to enhance security measures, stating, “I love MLS and Concacaf, but we need to work together… I have great experience in Europe. It’s okay, I understand their decision, but I think we could do something better.”
This development follows an earlier incident in April 2024, when Cheuko was banned from entering the pitch during the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-final between Inter Miami and Monterrey. The sanction was a result of an altercation after the first leg, where Messi, despite being injured, confronted Monterrey’s coaching staff over comments suggesting biased officiating. Cheuko’s involvement in the incident led to his restriction to locker room and mixed areas during the subsequent match.
Cheuko’s role extends beyond physical protection; he also provides psychological support to Messi, who considers him part of the family. Despite the recent ban, Cheuko remains committed to ensuring Messi’s safety and is eager to contribute to improving security standards within MLS and the broader Concacaf region.
