Messi's Bodyguard Banned from Leagues Cup After Field Incident in Miami-Atlas Clash
Messi's Ever-Present Shield to Miss Leagues Cup Action Following Heated Exchange
Miami – A familiar figure at Inter Miami matches, and a constant presence beside Lionel Messi, is facing a significant absence. Yassine Cheuko, Messi's personal bodyguard, has been slapped with a suspension that will sideline him for the entirety of the 2025 Leagues Cup tournament. The ban stems from an incident that occurred during the recent Leagues Cup match between Inter Miami and Atlas.
The controversy erupted after a particularly physical challenge, leading to a scuffle between players and staff on the field. Cheuko, known for his protective role and unwavering presence around Messi, reportedly entered the playing surface without authorization to intervene. While details remain somewhat murky, the incident clearly crossed the line, prompting swift action from tournament officials.
A Controversial Entry and the Consequences
Witness accounts and video footage show Cheuko moving onto the field as tensions flared, which is a breach of protocol. Leagues Cup regulations strictly prohibit unauthorized personnel from entering the field of play, regardless of intent. The decision to suspend Cheuko is being seen as a firm message regarding maintaining order and player safety within the competition.
This isn't the first time security concerns have been raised around Messi's matches, highlighting the immense popularity and the unique challenges of protecting one of the world’s most recognizable athletes. Cheuko's role extends beyond simple security; he's often described as a crucial member of Messi's entourage, providing a layer of protection and ensuring the star player can focus solely on the game.
Impact on Inter Miami and the Leagues Cup
The suspension of Cheuko, while seemingly a minor issue, adds another layer of complexity for Inter Miami as they navigate the upcoming Leagues Cup. While he isn’t a player, his presence has become a symbol of the team’s commitment to safeguarding their star attraction. The incident also raises questions about the protocols in place for managing security personnel during high-pressure matches.
The Leagues Cup organizers have stated they are committed to ensuring a safe and competitive environment for all participants. The swift and decisive action against Cheuko underscores this commitment. The 2025 tournament is already shaping up to be a spectacle, and this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to the rules, even for those on the sidelines.
Looking Ahead
Inter Miami will need to adjust their security arrangements in the absence of Cheuko. The team has yet to comment officially on the suspension, but it’s expected they will cooperate fully with the Leagues Cup investigation. Fans will undoubtedly miss seeing Cheuko's vigilant presence alongside Messi, but the focus now shifts to ensuring the safety and fair play within the competition.
