The recent Leagues Cup encounter between Inter Miami CF and Atlas concluded not just with football action, but with a notable disciplinary incident involving Lionel Messi’s personal bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko. This event has sparked discussions across the football community, highlighting the fine line between player protection and adherence to professional regulations within the sport.
During a chippy post-game confrontation following the intense match, Cheuko was observed entering the field of play. His intervention saw him attempting to usher Atlas players away from the global football icon, Lionel Messi, an action that swiftly drew the attention of tournament officials and subsequently led to a formal review by the disciplinary committee.
In response to the unprecedented on-field intervention, the Leagues Cup disciplinary committee promptly announced a significant sanction. Yassine Cheuko has been banned from all technical areas for the remainder of the tournament, which extends until August 31st. Furthermore, Inter Miami CF, Messi’s club, has been issued an undisclosed fine, underscoring the serious nature of the infraction.
According to the Leagues Cup 2025 Tournament Regulations, the incident was classified as “improper conduct” due to a member of Inter Miami’s club delegation entering restricted areas without the necessary official event credential. This clear breach of protocol necessitated immediate action to uphold the integrity and security standards of the competition.
The incident drew commentary from various figures, including Atlas coach Omar Doria. Doria acknowledged the bodyguard’s primary role in protecting Messi from potential fan intrusions but questioned the appropriateness of his involvement in altercations between players. He emphasized that the responsibility for regulating on-field conduct rests with the tournament organizers and disciplinary bodies.
Yassine Cheuko has become a familiar figure at Lionel Messi’s side, consistently seen accompanying the Argentine superstar since his tenure at Paris Saint-Germain. His presence underscores the heightened security measures often deemed necessary for athletes of Messi’s stature, though such measures must operate within established regulatory frameworks.
It is important to note that this was not the first instance where Cheuko has run onto the field in a protective capacity for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. Previous occasions have also seen him cross the boundary from the sidelines to ensure Messi’s safety, a pattern that brings the broader topic of Football Security into sharper focus.
The Disciplinary Action taken by the Leagues Cup against Yassine Cheuko and Inter Miami CF serves as a stern reminder of the strict protocols governing professional sports events. It reinforces the principle that while player safety is paramount, all personnel, including Lionel Messi’s entourage, must operate within the stipulated rules and regulations to maintain order and professionalism on the pitch.
