From Fighting in Iraq & Afghanistan to Besting MMA: Here’s Lionel Messi’s Bodyguard Who Served in US Navy SEALs

Lionel Messi has become a star in the United States. Having already bagged a piece of silverware for Inter Miami, the Argentine has become the most sought-after figure in the soccer landscape. And so, for the protection of the Miami man, the club has given the 7-time Ballon d’Or winner a full-time bodyguard. In fact, he ain’t the normal chaperone.

Be it fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan or besting the MMA, Messi’s new full-time, 24×7, bodyguard is someone, anyone should be afraid of. Let’s dive deeper to know more about the new Florida man’s bodyguard.

Who is the new bodyguard of Lionel Messi?

Ardent fans who dreamt of meeting Messi now have the chance to personally approach him and seek autographs and photographs. However, this situation comes with typical risks for the skipper. With this, Inter Miami has opted to get the assistance of a security professional who will provide continuous protection for Messi and his family.

Meet Yassine Chueko, a former US Army soldier who served as a Navy Seal in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is the person who has been entrusted with Messi’s personal safety. The former U.S. Navy soldier has often been seen accompanying the World Cup winner. Be it Messi walking down the tunnel or celebrating at the corners of the field, Chueko is everywhere.

According to La Nacion, Chueko’s role extends beyond safeguarding Messi during matches. He remains a constant presence for the Miami skipper and even accompanies him during everyday activities like grocery shopping with Antonela Roccuzzo and their children. This is because earlier his family had to encounter a few people while shopping at Miami’s local supermarket.

READ MORE: After Making US Open Cup Final, Lionel Messi Nears ‘Physical Limit’ as Inter Miami Faces Fatigue, Claims Boss Tata Martino

Reports suggest that Cheuko heads a team of over 50 individuals who monitor every aspect of the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner’s life in Miami. While he’s tasked with being Messi’s close protector, other team members look after the Rosario family. Naturally, Chueko has a certain set of special skills to protect La Pulga.

La Pulga’s bodyguard CV is impressive!

While fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan is enough to drop some jaws, Chueko’s skills may surprise you. His Instagram account highlights his expertise in various martial arts disciplines such as taekwondo and boxing, and he has participated in multiple MMA fights. Interestingly, ever since he has been entrusted with Messi’s security, Chueko’s Instagram followers have surged to an impressive count of over 124,000.

Subsequently, his last post is from 59 weeks ago which features him in an MMA fight. Notably, he has also added a post where he is standing outside FC Barcelona’s Camp Nou stadium. Another snapshot captures him alongside former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov at the Blaugrana sports complex six months prior. Indeed, Cheuko has lived quite a life before becoming La Pulga’s bodyguard.

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What are your thoughts on Messi’s new bodyguard? Let us know in the comments.