'I'm part of his family' - Lionel Messi's bodyguard opens up on deep bond with Inter Miami superstar and reveals message from Argentine legend that he will never forget

Cheuko, a former United States soldier, was handpicked by Inter Miami co-owner and footballing icon, David Beckham, to be Messi's shadow following his move to Major League Soccer. The former Navy SEAL quickly became a sensation on social media as he was spotted shadowing Messi on the touchline of multiple MLS matches to keep the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner safe from any threats.

Cheuko rose to prominence immediately following Messi's debut with Inter Miami. However, it was earlier this year in April that he received a lot of praise as he interrupted Inter Miami's win at Sporting Kansas City to tackle a fan as he attempted to get close to the Argentinian superstar. The 35-year-old former soldier has now opened up on his relationship with Messi and his family and also shared a very heartwarming statement the Argentine made to his wife Antonela Roccuzzo after winning his eighth Ballon d'Or in 2023.

Speaking in an interview, Cheuko said [via The Daily Mail]: "Messi does not consider me only his bodyguard but also a friend. We talk, we laugh, and get to know our personalities together. He always invites me to lunch and treats me well.

"When he won the Ballon d’Or, we were on the plane and he told me, 'Yassine, carry the Ballon d’Or in your hand!' I told him, 'Okay...' At first I thought he wanted me to carry it somewhere else. And then when I carried it, he said to his son and wife: 'The winner of the Ballon d'Or for the best bodyguard is Yassine.'

"It was a beautiful moment and words I will never forget from the best player in the world. I feel as if I am part of his family and I am trying hard to protect him not only from the physical side but also from the psychological side, because he trusts me a lot and depends on me and for my part I give all my focus to him. He is very humble."

The former Navy SEAL has not been on the touchline for some time as he is only allowed pitchside during Inter Miami matches. Furthermore, with Messi out injured it is unlikely that the duo will be seen on the football field until after the conclusion of the Leagues Cup.