WHAT YASSINE CHEUKO SAID
MLS has, however, taken to limiting Cheuko’s involvement, as he is now restricted to guarding Messi behind the scenes and is forbidden from stepping foot on the pitch. He has told House of Highlights: “They don’t allow me to be on the field anymore.”
Cheuko added on the problems that MLS face with Messi on board: “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.
“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.”
DID YOU KNOW?
Messi will still have Cheuko by his side when attending games across multiple competitions, with the martial arts expert becoming a key part of his family’s security detail: “I feel like I’m part of his family, and I’m working hard to protect him, not only physically but also psychologically, because he trusts me a lot and depends on me, and I give him all my attention. He’s very humble.”