Why is Lionel Messi's bodyguard Yassine Cheuko Banned by MLS and CONCACAF? What Happens Next?

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Lionel Messi's presence in the MLS has been nothing short of box-office. But while the Argentine continues to dazzle on the field, his off-field protector, Yassine Cheuko, has now been sidelined by the league in United States of America.

Cheuko is often present in Messi's matches for club and country. But he has now been banned by MLS and Concacaf.

What did Cheuko Say?

Messi's personal bodyguard, who is a former Navy SEAL, has revealed that Major League Soccer has officially banned him from pitchside duties during matches. The decision, which reportedly also applies to Inter Miami's CONCACAF Champions Cup fixtures, stems from the league's desire to take full control of matchday security for their biggest star.

Speaking to House of Highlights, Cheuko-who was hired after Messi's move to Inter Miami, thanks to a recommendation from David Beckham, said that MLS doesn't allow him anymore.

"They don't allow me to be on the field anymore. I was in Europe for seven years working for Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and only six people invaded the pitch. I arrived in the United States, and in 20 months of work, 16 people have already invaded the pitch. There's a huge problem here. I'm not the problem. Let me help Messi," Cheuko said.

While the bodyguard respects the MLS's move, he believes it's a missed opportunity for collaborative security.

"I love MLS and CONCACAF, but we have to work together. I love helping. I'm not better than anyone, but I have a wealth of experience in Europe. It's fine, I understand their decision, but I think we could do better," he added.

Why is Lionel Messi's bodyguard banned by MLS?

Known for his viral training routines and lightning-quick interventions to stop pitch invaders, Cheuko has become a cult figure among fans. But his proactive style may have triggered concerns within the league's framework, leading to the decision to sideline him during official fixtures.

The ban raises questions about how MLS intends to handle security around a global icon like Messi, especially as crowd invasions increase with his growing stateside popularity. For now, Cheuko may be forced to watch from the sidelines - even if his instincts say otherwise.