Lionel Messi’s bodyguard Yassine Cheuko has been banned from protecting him from the touchline in Inter Miami matches by the Major League Soccer.
Cheuko gained widespread praise last year after a video of him closely monitoring the crowd to stop pitch invaders from gaining access to Messi went viral online.
According to reports, The Major League Soccer has decided to take full control of security on matchday, restraining Cheuko’s access to the locker room and mixed zones.
The highly experienced security personnel confirmed in an interview that be no longer has access to the touchline.
He said: “They don’t allow me to be on the field anymore.
“I was in Europe for seven years, working for Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and only six people invaded the pitch. I came to the USA and in just 20 months 16 people have already done so. There’s a huge problem here, 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.”
Cheuko also served as Messi’s bodyguard while he was at PSG, he is reported to be on a staggering amount of $2 Million per year according to several American websites.
Lionel Messi has enjoyed a prolific start to the new Major League Soccer season with two goals, and two assists in three matches for Inter Miami this season.
The Javier Mascherano-led team will be back in action against Los Angeles FC in the first leg of the Champions Cup quarter-final on Thursday.
