Miami, FL – In a dramatic turn of events following Inter Miami’s victory over Atlas in the Leagues Cup, Lionel Messi‘s bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko, has been handed a lifetime ban from the tournament adn the MLS for his actions. The disciplinary committee also issued an undisclosed fine to Inter Miami CF.
The incident occurred during a post-game skirmish where cheuko was seen physically intervening, pushing Atlas players who were attempting to approach Messi. Videos circulating on social media captured the confrontation, highlighting Cheuko’s aggressive stance in protecting the Argentine superstar.
The disciplinary committee’s statement confirmed the sanctions, citing violations of the Leagues Cup 2025 tournament regulations. Cheuko’s suspension extends to all technical areas for the remainder of the 2025 Leagues Cup and he is also barred from MLS games.
This development casts a shadow over Inter Miami’s or else triumphant entry into the Leagues Cup, underscoring the intense security measures surrounding Messi and the potential repercussions for overzealous protection.
? there was a Yassine Cheuko sighting tonight in the Leagues Cup – as he got physical and pushed Atlas players away during a post-game skirmish.
Reminder: Cheuko hasn’t been seen during MLS games this year because he is no longer permitted on the field.#InterMamiCF #Messi pic.twitter.com/6EHqxkknjM
– Franco Panizo (@Francopanizo) July 31, 2025
?OFFICIAL!?
? The Messi bodyguard (yassine cheuko) was suspended by the rest of the tournament and Inter Miami received an economic fine?
The sanctions were also revealed to the players who received a red card on day 1 of the #LeaguesCup.pic.twitter.com/k0gpOls06e
– Raúl Orvañanos (@raulorvananos) August 1, 2025