Messi’s MLS Bodyguard Shortage
- Lionel Messi's arrival in teh United States has undeniably boosted the profile of Major League Soccer.
- Cheuko, a California native of Arab descent and a Muslim, is a former Navy SEAL.
- A social media presence with over 1.1 million followers, Cheuko's past includes combat experience in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Messi’s Bodyguard Restricted From On-Field Presence by MLS
Table of Contents
Lionel Messi‘s arrival in teh United States has undeniably boosted the profile of Major League Soccer. The 37-year-old Argentinian star draws fervent crowds, with fans clamoring for tickets to Inter Miami games and cameras constantly focused on his every move. Frequently enough seen nearby is Yassine Cheuko, Messi’s personal bodyguard.
Cheuko, a California native of Arab descent and a Muslim, is a former Navy SEAL. He combines his military background with intense, near-daily martial arts training under Luan Aguirre, a Muay Thai fighter and coach.
A social media presence with over 1.1 million followers, Cheuko’s past includes combat experience in Iraq and Afghanistan. He now leads a 50-person security team dedicated to protecting Messi and his family around the clock. Cheuko is the most visible member of this team.

Cheuko’s proactive interventions on the field, preventing fans from approaching Messi, have gained widespread attention. However, the MLS has reportedly limited his pitch-side access.
cheuko addressed the situation in an interview with House of Highlights, expressing his surprise. “They don’t want me on the field,” he said, without elaborating on how the MLS communicated this decision.
Ligue 1 and Champions League Experience
“I worked in Europe for seven years for Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and only six people invaded the pitch,” Cheuko stated in the interview.”I came to the United States, and in 20 months of work, 16 people have already entered. There is a huge problem here. I am not the problem; let me help Messi.” Despite this plea, the MLS has informed him that he will not be allowed on the sidelines during Messi’s matches.
Cheuko emphasized his willingness to collaborate with the MLS and CONCACAF to improve stadium security, which he considers a top priority. “I love the MLS and CONCACAF, but we have to work together,” he said. “I love to help; I am not better than anyone, but I have great experience in Europe. It’s okay, I understand their decision, but I think we could do something better.”
Messi’s Bodyguard: All You Need to Know
This article explores the situation surrounding Lionel Messi’s bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko, and his role in protecting the soccer superstar. We’ll break down key details and answer common questions.
Who is Yassine Cheuko?
Q: Who is Yassine Cheuko?
Yassine Cheuko is the personal bodyguard of Lionel Messi. He is a California native of Arab descent and a Muslim. He’s also a former Navy SEAL.
Q: What is Cheuko’s background?
Cheuko has a diverse background. He’s a former Navy SEAL with combat experience in Iraq and Afghanistan. He also trains in martial arts, specifically Muay Thai, under the guidance of Luan Aguirre.Additionally, he maintains a strong social media presence with over 1.1 million followers.
Cheuko’s Role and MLS Restrictions
Q: What does Cheuko do for Lionel Messi?
Cheuko leads a 50-person security team dedicated to protecting Messi and his family around the clock. He is the most visible member of this team and is often seen on the sidelines during Messi’s matches.
Q: What has the MLS restricted concerning Cheuko?
The MLS (Major League soccer) has reportedly limited Cheuko’s access to the pitch during matches. He is no longer allowed on the sidelines.
Q: Why has the MLS restricted Cheuko’s access?
The article provides no explicit reason for the MLS’s decision. Cheuko himself expressed surprise in an interview, stating that he was not given a clear description.
Q: What is Cheuko’s opinion on the MLS’s decision?
Cheuko expressed his surprise at the decision but also acknowledged that he understood it. He emphasized his willingness to collaborate with the MLS and CONCACAF to improve stadium security.
Q: How does Cheuko feel about stadium security?
Cheuko considers stadium security a top priority. He believes there is a problem in the United States with fans entering the pitch, having witnessed more incidents in a shorter time than he did in Europe.He emphasized his experience in European soccer, where he observed fewer pitch invasions over a more extended period while working for Ligue 1 and Champions League.
Cheuko’s Experience
Q: What experience does Cheuko have with stadium security compared to the US?
Cheuko worked in Europe for seven years, specifically for Ligue 1 and the Champions League. During that time, only six people invaded the pitch. However, in the 20 months he worked in the United States, 16 people have entered the field. This illustrates a significant difference in perceived stadium security.
Q: What is Cheuko doing now?
Currently, despite not being able to provide on-field security during Messi’s league matches, Cheuko continues to lead messi’s security team and focus on protecting Messi and his family.
Summary Table: Cheuko vs. Reported Security Practices
Here is a table summarizing key points about Cheuko’s experience and the reported security situations related to protecting messi in the United States:
| Aspect | Cheuko’s Experience | Reported Situation in the US |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Experience | 7 years in Ligue 1 and Champions League security | 20 months working in the US |
| Pitch invasions | 6 incidents reported | 16 reported incidents |
| Current Role | Leads a 50-person security team for Messi. | Has restricted pitch-side access. |
