Sport
MLS Bans Messi’s Bodyguard from Pitch After Multiple Fan Invasions
Yassine Cheuko, the bodyguard to Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi, recently shared that he’s no longer able to assist the star in the same way he did before due to restrictions imposed by Major League Soccer (MLS).
Cheuko, a former Navy SEAL, has been guarding Messi since his move to the U.S. in 2023, with security concerns being a priority for the soccer legend. Cheuko became a familiar figure at MLS matches, often stepping in to stop pitch-invading fans trying to get closer to Messi. On several occasions, he’s tackled fans before they could reach the field.
However, MLS has now limited Cheuko’s role, banning him from stepping onto the pitch during games. Instead, he’s restricted to behind-the-scenes security duties. Cheuko expressed his frustration during an interview with House of Highlights, stating, “They don’t allow me to be on the field anymore.”
Reflecting on the unique challenges in the U.S., Cheuko said, “In Europe, I worked for seven years in Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and only six fans ever invaded the pitch. But here in the U.S., in just 20 months, 16 fans have breached the field. There’s a real issue here. I’m not the problem. Let me do my job and protect Messi.”
Pep Guardiola has chosen Bernardo Silva as Manchester City’s new captain, handing the midfielder the armband without putting it to a team vote. Silva steps into the role following the exit of Kevin De Bruyne, whose contract with City recently expired. Guardiola also named Ruben Dias, Rodri, and Erling Haaland as the team’s new vice-captains for the upcoming season.
Silva’s current contract runs out next summer, meaning his time as captain could be short if no new deal is signed. Though he’s turned down multiple transfer offers in recent windows, interest in the Portuguese playmaker remains strong, with clubs from Saudi Arabia and former side Benfica still keen on him.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons are set to face long-time rivals Ghana’s Black Princesses in a friendly match as part of their build-up to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Coach Justine Madugu’s team also has a second friendly lined up against Portugal, which will be played on Monday, June 23.
The clash with Ghana will take place in Morocco, where the Black Princesses are already camped in Benslimane for their final round of preparations. Meanwhile, the Super Falcons will travel to Portugal later this week to begin their own final training phase ahead of the tournament.
Nigeria is in Group B, where they will take on Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria. Ghana, on the other hand, will compete in Group C alongside defending champions South Africa, Mali, and Tanzania.
Real Madrid might be without Kylian Mbappe for their Club World Cup opener against Al-Hilal on Wednesday, as the forward is currently down with an illness. Mbappe missed training ahead of the match, and new manager Xabi Alonso says a final decision will be made on game day.
“Kylian felt a bit better this morning, but not well enough just yet,” Alonso said. “We’ll wait till tomorrow morning to make the call.” Madrid could also be missing key players Antonio Rudiger and Eduardo Camavinga.
“Rudiger gave everything this season. I’m not sure he’ll be in the squad, but he’s recovering fast and should be back first. Camavinga is getting better too, but he still needs some time,” Alonso added. Alonso is set to take charge of Madrid for the first time, but injuries and illness may leave him without some of his top stars.
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