Messi's Bodyguard: 'I'm Family' - Intimate Look at Their Bond

 Following Lionel Messi's transfer to Inter Miami, Yassine Cheuko assumed his bodyguard role. The former Navy SEAL has disclosed their relationship.

David Beckham, the co-owner of Inter Miami and a footballing icon, personally selected Cheuko, a former United States soldier, to serve as Messi's understudy after his transfer to Major League Soccer.

 After being observed shadowing Messi on the touchline of numerous MLS matches to ensure the safety of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, the former Navy SEAL rapidly gained popularity on social media.

Cheuko gained recognition immediately after Messi's début with Inter Miami. Nevertheless, in April of this year, he garnered significant attention for his actions. 

He interrupted Inter Miami's victory over Sporting Kansas City to tackle a fan attempting to approach the Argentinian sensation. 

The 35-year-old former soldier has disclosed his relationship with Messi and his family and a sentimental statement that the Argentine footballer addressed to his wife, Antonella Roccuzzo, following his eighth Ballon d'Or victory in 2023.

Cheuko stated in an interview [via The Daily Mail] that Messi regards me as more than just his bodyguard; he regards me as a comrade. 

We engage in conversation, share laughter, and develop a mutual understanding of our dispositions. He consistently extends an invitation to lunch and treats me with respect.

"We were on the plane when he won the Ballon d'Or, and he instructed me, 'Yassine, carry the Ballon d'Or in your hand!'" I replied, "Okay." Initially, I believed he intended for me to transport it to a different location. 

Then, as I was carrying it, he announced to his son and wife that Yassine had won the Ballon d'Or for the greatest bodyguard.

"I will never forget the words of the world's greatest player; it was a beautiful moment." I am a member of his family, and I am making a concerted effort to safeguard him from both physical and psychological harm. 

He places a high level of trust in me and relies on me, and I am dedicating my entire attention to him. He is exceedingly modest.

The former Navy SEAL has not been permitted to be on the touchline for an extended period, as he is only permitted to be on the pitchside during Inter Miami matches.

 Additionally, it is not likely that the duo will be observed on the football field until after the League Cup concludes, as Messi is unavailable due to an injury.