It has become ‘synonymous’ with Messi’s life, get to know the former American marine who has taken over the security of the Argentine star at Inter Miami.Yassine Chueko is a name that is quickly becoming synonymous with Lionel Messi’s new life at Inter Miami. A former special forces soldier, who served for the US in Iraq and Afghanistan, has been personally selected by David Beckham to serve as Messi’s ever-present personal bodyguard.
According to “Daily Mail”, Chueko is not just an ordinary physical defender. His background as an MMA fighter and expert in martial arts such as taekwondo and boxing makes him an ideal choice. The Argentine superstar requires an extraordinary level of security, so Chueko has been seen “marking” him as a shadow both during celebrations on the field and during the game, from the sideline of the field.
One such occasion was when Chueko was seen running on the touchline as Lionel Messi celebrated the equalizer with his teammates in the last game against Cincinnati.
Chueko has impressive credentials as a former US Marine and his dueling experience coupled with vast expertise in various martial arts disciplines. According to the report, the rise of pitch invaders in recent years and the hysteria surrounding Messi’s incredible start in the US led to the decision to hire him.
The relationship between Chueko and Messi is not limited to the field. He escorts Messi from the team bus, to the dressing room to the entrance to the stadium and the pitch to ensure a safe passage. So Chueko’s presence is constant.
A particular moment that caught the public’s attention was during the preparation for Inter Miami’s League Cup semi-final triumph against Philadelphia. Chueko waited in front of the Inter Miami bus, before entering the action, as Messi appeared, or running along the sideline of the field when Messi moved with the ball on his feet, in an action.