Lionel Messi’s recent addition to his security detail has become a social media sensation, as fans keenly observe the dedicated efforts of this vigilant bodyguard in safeguarding the Argentine icon in Miami.
Gaining rapid momentum across social platforms is a video compilation showcasing instances where Messi’s new bodyguard adeptly executes his duties with utmost precision.
This footage has cast the spotlight on the enigmatic figure who reportedly received a specific mandate from David Beckham to safeguard Messi during matches. This proactive measure was adopted by the co-owners of Inter Miami in response to recent incidents of pitch invasions by zealous fans yearning to get close to the legendary soccer star.
Peep Messi’s bodyguard 😭😭 this guy follows him EVERYWHERE pic.twitter.com/IGrMSa4P77
— R (@Lionel30i) August 24, 2023
According to La Nacion, the bodyguard in question is identified as Yassine Chueko, a former US soldier. Chueko’s conspicuous presence drew attention when he dashed along the sideline and continued beyond the corner flag during Messi and his Miami teammates‘ jubilant celebration of Leonardo Campana’s equalizer, deep into stoppage time, in the US Open Semi-final against Cincinnati.
Yassine Cheuko is becoming the new favorite of Lionel Messi fans as comments have started to label the former solider as “De Paul’s brother,” referencing Rodrigo de Paul, who is known to be the bodyguard on the pitch for Lionel Messi.
Chueko’s role extends beyond mere event security. Whether accompanying Messi from the team bus to the changing rooms or pacing alongside the touchline, diligently tracking Messi’s every movement during a match, he remains consistently within immediate proximity of the Argentine maestro.
Lionel Messi’s other bodyguard, Rodrigo de Paul, rejects the move to Saudi Pro League
Shifting from the club-level guardian to that on the international stage, Rodrigo de Paul, often humorously labeled as Lionel Messi’s “bodyguard” by online aficionados, has firmly declined a transition to the Saudi Pro League.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Al-Ahli had drawn close to securing the Argentine midfielder’s services. However, this prospective move has collapsed, attributed to the Saudi Pro League outfit’s inability to align with personal terms negotiated with the Atlético Madrid player.
Rodrigo de Paul deal has collapsed. Al Ahli are prepared to focus on their main target in the midfield after €32m negotiation finally broken on Monday night ⛔️🇦🇷🇸🇦
De Paul, prepared to stay at Atléti and fight for his club after speaking to Diego Simeone. pic.twitter.com/h9SlVYILGw
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 22, 2023
De Paul has resolved to remain in Madrid, opting to contend for his place within the club’s ranks. This decision followed discussions with club manager, Diego Simeone.
Significantly, this turn of events resonates with a larger pattern observed in the summer transfer window. Saudi Arabian clubs, despite brandishing substantial offers, have faltered in securing the signatures of Argentine players who notably formed part of the World Cup-winning squad in Qatar.
Lionel Messi, Paulo Dybala, Leandro Paredes, Cuti Romero, Ángel Di María, Lautaro Martínez, Nicolas Otamendi, and Rodrigo De Paul constitute the roster of players who encountered these lucrative propositions from Saudi Arabian clubs during the summer. Nonetheless, all these prominent footballers have opted to reject these offers, signifying a unified stance.