It is not uncommon for celebrities, including sports stars, to have personal security. But should they be in close attendance as the stars apply their trade? Lionel Messi’s arrival in the MLS almost two years ago spurred global interest in the league and Inter Miami.
But lately, Messi’s bodyguard has been drawing much public attention. Videos of him dashing to restrain pitch invaders trying to get close to their idol went viral last year. Now, the league management has decided to step in.
A Big Splash
Like millions of other soccer fans, my interest in Major League Soccer was reignited when the great Lionel Messi signed up with Inter Miami. My fleeting love affair with the MLS was ignited when LA Galaxy had Inter Miami Owner David Beckham and controversial Swede Zlatan Ibrahimovic on their books. My infatuation with this league began fledgling when these European stages hung their boots. But the arrival of the eight-time Ballon d’Or (and now World Cup) winner created a splash few could ignore.
Fancy a Bearhug?
Millions from across the Atlantic tuned in to watch the Argentine soccer god in the mesmerizing pink of The Herons. Among the thousands crammed into stadiums watching the magical left foot dazzle defenders, perhaps more closely than anyone was Yassine Cheuko. The dozen or so Messi worshippers who tried to get a paw on their idol during games probably know that name. If not his name, they are familiar with the bulging biceps that wrapped them in a hostile bearhug.
You Are Not Welcome
Even if you’ve never been to the Chase Stadium, you’ve likely seen Messi’s bodyguard in action. He became an Internet sensation last year as clips of Cheuko dashing onto the field to manhandle selfie-seeking zealots went viral.
Now, the MLS has told Cheuko to back off and let their security guys do their job. Going forward he will no longer be allowed to prowl the touchline sniffing for pitch invaders. He will be limited to the changing rooms and mixed areas of the stadium.
Final Thoughts
The former Navy SEAL is not too amused with the new arrangement. “I came to the USA and in just 20 months 16 people have already [invaded the pitch]. There’s a huge problem here. I’m not the problem. Let me help Messi.” The sight of a bald man-mountain stalking the perimeter of the field and casting suspicious glances about doesn’t make great optics. But Cheuko does have a point. Who knows the intentions of the seemingly hapless, star-struck fanboys when they dart onto the pitch?
Commenters on the Cheuko clips on social media largely praise the ex-military man for his vigilance. He has one task and executes it with ruthless focus. The job he’s doing is important. Much as Messi is past his prime, he is still contributing a ton to Inter Miami, the MLS, and football both on and off the pitch. His achievements at the club and national level remain unmatched. He does warrant that extra bit of protection. I hope the MLS security detail is up to the task.
