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Lionel Messi’s personal security guard, Yassine Cheuko, has issued a strong appeal for improved stadium security after a series of pitch invasions by eager fans attempting to approach the football legend. Taking to Instagram, Cheuko criticized stadium security staff, claiming many are not fully committed to their responsibilities, often distracted by the match or capturing photos and videos instead of ensuring player safety.
Cheuko, a former MMA fighter who has been closely protecting Messi since his high-profile transfer to Inter Miami, expressed frustration over the recurring breaches of security. In a lengthy social media statement, he acknowledged the assistance of security teams in Honduras and Peru but pointed out that many personnel are failing in their duties.
“It is not my role to apprehend fans who invade the field. That responsibility falls on stadium security staff. But let’s be honest: most of them—without generalizing—are not fully focused on their duties. Instead of ensuring security, they are more occupied with watching the game or taking photos and videos,” Cheuko wrote.
His comments come in the wake of an incident during Inter Miami’s preseason match against Panamanian side Sporting San Miguelito, where a pitch invader successfully reached Messi before being escorted away. In his Instagram post, Cheuko emphasized that, while he remains committed to his role, inadequate support from stadium security makes his job significantly more difficult.
“Please, gentlemen of the security staff, I ask you with all the respect and seriousness this deserves: stay vigilant. Do the job you are paid to do. The safety of the stadium, the players, and the fans depends on you,” he urged.
Cheuko also dispelled misconceptions about his financial status and public image, stating, “I am not a celebrity, and I have no ego. I don’t make three million dollars a year, as some media claim. I am simply a worker, like millions of others, giving my best every day to accomplish my mission with dedication and honor.”
His message highlights the increasing security concerns surrounding Messi’s appearances, as fans across the United States and beyond flock to stadiums to catch a glimpse of the football icon. With Inter Miami set to continue its campaign in the Concacaf Champions Cup, where Messi and his team will face Sporting KC, Cheuko’s concerns serve as a stark reminder of the importance of effective security measures in safeguarding players and maintaining order in the stadiums.
As Messi’s presence continues to attract massive crowds, ensuring proper security protocols will remain a critical challenge for event organizers and stadium authorities alike.
Feature Image Credit: Pexels / Fabrizio Velez, Pixabay / Alejandro Garay
