Yassine Cheuko, Lionel Messi’s bodyguard, shared the beautiful words the Argentine superstar said about him after winning the 2023 Ballon d’Or.
In a recent interview, Yassine Cheuko, the bodyguard of superstar Lionel Messi, shared some interesting stories following the conclusion of the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony.
Specifically, during the flight from the France Football awards ceremony, Messi awarded Cheuko the title of “Ballon d’Or for the Best Bodyguard.” Sharing about this moment, Cheuko said: “Messi doesn’t just see me as a bodyguard but also as a friend. We talk, joke around, and get to know each other’s personalities. He always invites me to lunch and treats me very well.
When he won the Ballon d’Or, we were on the plane, and he told me, ‘Yassine, hold the Ballon d’Or!’ and I replied, ‘Okay…’ Initially, I thought he wanted me to take it somewhere else.”
The bodyguard added: “And when I held it, he told his son and wife, ‘The winner of the Ballon d’Or for the best bodyguard is Yassine.’ It was a beautiful moment and words I will never forget from the best player in the world.
I feel like I’m part of his family, and I’m doing my best to protect him not just physically but also psychologically, because he trusts and depends on me a lot, and I focus all my attention on him. He is very humble.”
Yassine Cheuko started working as Lionel Messi’s bodyguard when the Argentine player moved to PSG in the summer of 2021. Before that, Cheuko was a soldier in the French army and had extensive experience in security.
With his military background and excellent protective skills, Cheuko quickly became someone Messi trusted and admired in his role as protector and supporter. Many times, Cheuko’s timely presence has prevented incidents directed at his client.
**[Image Caption: Yassine Cheuko is always present in time to ensure Messi’s safety. Photo: The Sun]**
For Messi, the holder of eight Ballon d’Or awards, he has yet to play a single minute for Inter Miami since winning the Copa America with the Argentina national team. El Pulga suffered an ankle injury in the final and has yet to return to training or playing. Currently, the former Barca star’s return remains uncertain, which is seen as a significant loss for Inter Miami in their quest for major titles.
