BANNED! Lionel Messi’s bodyguard reprimanded for a month by Leagues Cup disciplinary committee – watch why | Football News
The Leagues Cup disciplinary committee has banned Lionel Messi’s bodyguard Yassine Cheuko from all technical areas for the remainder of the tournament through August 31, and imposed an undisclosed fine on Inter Miami following an incident where Cheuko entered the field to intervene in a postgame confrontation between Inter Miami and Atlas players on July 30.The disciplinary action came after Cheuko, wearing a black Miami T-shirt, ran onto the field and physically pushed away Atlas players who were gathered following Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Atlas.The Leagues Cup disciplinary committee released an official statement addressing the incident: “After the July 30 Inter Miami CF vs. Club Atlas match, a member of Inter Miami’s club delegation displayed improper conduct by entering restricted areas without an official event credential. In accordance with the Leagues Cup 2025 Tournament Regulations, the Disciplinary Committee has suspended the individual involved from all technical areas for the remainder of Leagues Cup 2025 and issued an undisclosed fine to Inter Miami CF.“Atlas defender Matheus Doria expressed concerns about Cheuko’s intervention on the field: “We already know that our board works very well and will take care of the issue. I understand that Messi’s bodyguard is there to protect Messi from a possible entry by a fan, I don’t know, but between players, he doesn’t have that permission.”Doria further elaborated on the situation: “It’s not up to us to say much or give our opinion on the matter, but the board and those in charge of the Leagues Cup have already seen it and will take charge of what can and can’t be done because as long as it protects not only Messi but the other players, and the physical integrity of the players who are there, that’s fine. But if it’s for other issues, no one will agree, but it’s not up to me to do anything.“Cheuko has been working as Messi’s security personnel since the footballer’s time at Paris Saint-Germain. Previous reports suggesting Cheuko was a former Navy SEAL or professional MMA fighter have been found to be incorrect.This incident is not the first time Cheuko has entered the field to protect Messi. He has previously intercepted pitch invaders during matches, demonstrating his commitment to ensuring Messi’s security.In April 2025, Inter Miami had already taken action regarding Cheuko’s field presence by prohibiting him from being on the sideline during MLS matches. Despite this restriction, he continues to be employed by the team.
