Lionel Messi's $3 Million-A-Year Bodyguard Fails to Prevent Pitch Invader Embracing Superstar Mid-Match. Video Goes Viral

Yassine Cheuko, Lionel Messi's dedicated personal bodyguard, has captured the attention of fans worldwide since the Argentine football icon's move to Major League Soccer (MLS) team Inter Miami. Cheuko is often spotted standing vigilantly by the pitch during Inter Miami's matches, ensuring Messi's safety from overzealous fans and potential intruders. In a recent pre-season match against Sporting San Miguelito in Panama, Inter Miami emerged victorious with a 3-1 win. However, the match took an unexpected turn when a fan managed to evade security and make a beeline for Messi, ultimately taking Cheuko down in the process. This incident highlights the intense scrutiny and protection surrounding the legendary footballer, showcasing the lengths Cheuko goes to in order to safeguard Messi on and off the pitch.

As the fan sprinted towards Messi, Cheuka tried to stop him from doing so. However, while trying to change direction, the slipped and accidentally slide-tackled Cheuko in the process.

The fan then hugged Messi before Cheuko got up and took him away from the Argentine skipper. A video of the same incident has gone viral on social media.

Someone finally defeated Messi's bodyguard pic.twitter.com/qQzJX85I93

Ever since Messi moved to the United States, his safety has been the utmost priority for Inter Miami, and owner David Beckham reportedly recommended Cheuko for the role.

As per multiple reports, Cheuko earns a salary of $3.5 million per year to guard the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner. There have been other claims made about Cheuko, including his military background. Reports have even suggested that Cheuko is an ex-Navy SEAL

However, Inter Miami owner Gerardo 'Tata' Martino rubbished those claims during a press conference on Monday.

"He had never been to the United States. He wasn't in the war or part of the U.S. military," said Martino, the former Barcelona and Argentina head coach.
"Reports become a giant smoke bomb that is false and can cause issues for a good person."

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For the unversed, Cheuko hails from Paris and has a background in MMA. Cheuko had a stint with Tiger Muay Thai gym in Thailand. Luis Aguirre Elias, Cheuko's trained, confirmed his professional fights in a recent report.

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In fact, Cheuko has been associated with Messi since his PSG days.