When you’re Lionel Messi—the greatest footballer of all time—you don’t just walk around without someone watching your back. Ever since his high-profile move to Inter Miami, Lionel Messi has been spotted more frequently with an unmistakable figure by his side: his bodyguard. While fans are in awe of Messi’s magical left foot, they’re equally intrigued by the man who’s always just a few feet away from him, constantly alert, always watching, and—according to social media—ready to take down anyone who gets too close.
Who Is Messi’s Bodyguard? Meet Yassine Cheuko
Yassine Cheuko is not your average Lionel Messi security guard. He’s a former U.S. Navy SEAL with a background in mixed martial arts, Lionel Messi which includes experience in MMA, boxing, and taekwondo. The guy has a serious resume, and it’s no surprise Messi chose someone of his caliber to be his personal bodyguard.
Before working for Messi, Lionel Messi Yassine was already well-known in private security circles. He had done high-risk protection work and had a reputation for being both discreet and incredibly effective. His transition into Messi’s world was smooth, thanks to his professional discipline and high-level training. When you’re protecting a celebrity as globally beloved as Messi, you need to be prepared for anything—from overzealous fans to potential security threats.
Since joining Messi, Yassine has become something of a celebrity himself. Videos of him running the sidelines during Inter Miami matches have gone viral, Lionel Messi with fans nicknaming him “Messi’s shadow.” He’s even gained a massive social media following of his own, thanks to his ever-present demeanor and intense look.
Why Does Messi Need a Bodyguard Anyway?
You might wonder: does someone like Lionel Messi really need a full-time bodyguard? The answer is a resounding yes. Messi isn’t just a footballer; he’s a global icon. Anywhere he goes, he’s mobbed by fans, followed by paparazzi, and surrounded by excitement. While 99% of interactions are probably harmless, it only takes one dangerous situation to turn things upside down.
Since moving to the U.S., Messi’s popularity has skyrocketed even more. From celebrity appearances to packed stadiums, his presence draws massive crowds. Lionel Messi That kind of attention naturally comes with risks. Whether it’s an overly enthusiastic fan trying to get a selfie or someone with bad intentions, the threat level is always high.
Having a bodyguard like Yassine ensures that Messi can focus on what he does best—playing football—without constantly worrying about his personal safety. It’s not just about keeping people away; it’s about creating a safe environment where Messi can enjoy a somewhat normal life, even amidst global fame.
The Viral Sideline Footage: Messi’s Shadow in Action
If you’ve been on TikTok, Instagram, Lionel Messi or Twitter lately, chances are you’ve seen Yassine in action. One of the most viral clips shows him literally running up and down the sidelines during Messi’s matches with Inter Miami. While Messi dazzles the crowd with his dribbling and goals, Yassine is seen jogging the touchline, eyes scanning the stands, making sure everything stays in order.
Fans love the way he’s always just a few steps behind Messi, even when he’s celebrating a goal or walking off the field. It’s like he’s programmed to stay in Messi’s radius at all times. The consistency is impressive, and it reflects a deep level of training and discipline.
These viral moments have added an interesting new element to watching Messi play. It’s not just about the goals and assists anymore—people are tuning in to see what his bodyguard is up to. In a way, Yassine has become part of the Messi experience, especially for fans in Miami and across the U.S.
A Look Into Yassine’s Training and Mindset
What sets Yassine apart from other bodyguards isn’t just his athletic build or martial arts background. It’s his mindset. Coming from a military background, Lionel Messi especially as a Navy SEAL, brings a unique psychological toughness that’s hard to teach. He’s trained to remain calm under pressure, make split-second decisions, and assess risk like a pro.
His martial arts training only enhances his capabilities. He knows how to neutralize a threat quickly and efficiently without causing unnecessary harm. It’s not about fighting—it’s about control, protection, and de-escalation. The fact that he’s never had to physically confront anyone (at least publicly) speaks to his effectiveness. Just his presence is usually enough.
Yassine is also known for his disciplined lifestyle. He trains constantly, maintains peak physical fitness, and treats his job with the utmost seriousness. For him, being Messi’s bodyguard isn’t just a gig—it’s a mission.
How Messi and Yassine Built Trust
In the world of high-profile security, trust is everything. Lionel Messi You can’t have someone shadowing you 24/7 if you don’t fully trust them. It’s clear that Messi and Yassine have built a strong working relationship. Whether it’s arriving at the airport, walking into a restaurant, or attending an event, you’ll always see them together.
Messi, known for being humble and low-key, likely appreciates the quiet professionalism Yassine brings. He’s not flashy or trying to be in the spotlight—he’s just doing his job. That level of discretion is rare and highly valued in the world of personal security.
Their partnership isn’t just functional—it’s personal. Over time, Lionel Messi Messi’s family has also come to rely on Yassine, especially during public outings. He’s often seen ensuring not only Messi’s safety but also that of his wife and kids. That level of responsibility indicates deep trust and respect.
Social Media Fame and Fan Reactions
It’s kind of wild how much attention Messi’s bodyguard has been getting online. Lionel Messi Social media has taken what could’ve been a behind-the-scenes role and turned it into a fan favorite subplot of Messi’s Miami journey. Memes, fan edits, and even fan pages have popped up dedicated solely to Yassine.
Some fans joke that he should get a jersey number. Others say he should get a contract with Inter Miami. While it’s all in good fun, Lionel Messi it also shows how much fans appreciate the extra layer of security Messi has. It gives them peace of mind knowing their idol is being looked after by someone so capable.
Yassine himself hasn’t said much publicly—he prefers to stay out of the limelight. But he does occasionally post training videos and motivational content, giving fans a glimpse into the discipline it takes to do his job. Lionel Messi For many, he’s become a symbol of loyalty, protection, and quiet strength.
The Bigger Picture: Security for Sports Icons
Messi’s use of a full-time bodyguard isn’t unique among superstars, but it does highlight the growing need for personal security in the age of social media and global fame. Athletes today aren’t just players—they’re brands, Lionel Messi public figures, and walking media events.
Security is no longer just about guarding someone from physical threats. It’s about protecting privacy, managing crowd control, and sometimes even navigating digital threats. With all eyes on Messi, having someone like Yassine on his team isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
This trend is only going to grow. As more athletes become international celebrities, expect to see more personal security becoming part of their everyday lives. And if those bodyguards are anything like Yassine, fans might just fall in love with them too.
Final Thoughts
Lionel Messi’s bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko, is more than just a guy in sunglasses—he’s a trained professional, a protective presence, and now, an internet sensation. His job might be to keep Messi safe, but he’s managed to win over fans simply by doing his job with silent precision and unmatched focus.
As Messi continues his journey in Miami and beyond, one thing is certain: wherever he goes, his trusted shadow will be right there with him—watching, protecting, and quietly becoming a legend in his own right.
