Lionel Messi's bodyguard banned! Yassine Cheuko reveals why he's no longer allowed to help Inter Miami superstar and says MLS 'has a huge problem'

Former Navy SEAL Cheuko has been in Messi’s corner since the Argentine icon completed a move to the United States in 2023. It was determined at that stage that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner required personal security in America.

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Cheuko has made regular appearances during the fixtures that Messi has graced, with somebody having to chase down the pitch-invading supporters that are desperate to get close to their sporting idol. Many have been tackled before making it that far.

MLS has, however, taken to limiting Cheuko’s involvement, as he is now restricted to guarding Messi behind the scenes and is forbidden from stepping foot on the pitch. He has told House of Highlights: “They don't allow me to be on the field anymore.”

Cheuko added on the problems that MLS face with Messi on board: “I was in Europe for seven years working for Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and only six people invaded the pitch. I arrived in the United States, and in 20 months of work, 16 people have already invaded the pitch. There's a huge problem here. I'm not the problem. Let me help Messi.

“I love MLS and CONCACAF, but we have to work together. I love helping. I'm not better than anyone, but I have a wealth of experience in Europe. It's fine, I understand their decision, but I think we could do better.”

Messi will still have Cheuko by his side when attending games across multiple competitions, with the martial arts expert becoming a key part of his family’s security detail: “I feel like I'm part of his family, and I'm working hard to protect him, not only physically but also psychologically, because he trusts me a lot and depends on me, and I give him all my attention. He's very humble.”

Messi returned to action for Inter Miami in their latest fixture, having seen his workload with club and country limited of late. He stepped off the bench to score in a 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Union and could figure in a CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-final clash with LAFC on Wednesday.