Lionel Messi`s bodyguard, Yassine Chueko, has been prohibited from being on the touchline by Major League Soccer (MLS).
Chueko, believed to be a former Navy SEAL, has been protecting the Argentinian football star at matches for over seven years.
Messi, aged 37, joined Inter Miami in MLS in the summer of 2023.
He has frequently been approached by enthusiastic fans on the field, many seeking a selfie with him.
Chueko has been responsible for Messi`s security since his time at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.
However, MLS has now banned him from the sidelines due to new safety regulations in the league.
Chueko stated to House of Highlights: “They don`t allow me to be on the field anymore.”
He also expressed his opinion that MLS needs to enhance player protection, noting that Messi has been approached by 16 pitch invaders since arriving in the United States.
He added: “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.”
Chueko has previously described himself as feeling like part of Messi`s “family.”
The security professional has gained a reputation for quickly intervening and stopping fans who approach Messi on the field.
He added: “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.”
Earlier this month, Chueko offered to fight Logan Paul.
YouTuber and WWE star Logan Paul challenged Messi amid a legal dispute over copyright.
Chueko, a 34-year-old Muay Thai fighter, offered to take Paul on in place of Messi.
He said: “Messi doesn`t even know who this guy is. If Logan really wants a fight, he can fight me, not a football player.”
