‘s presence is magnetic; wherever he goes, sell out, fans lose themselves in adoration, and cameras lock onto every flick of his boot. But with each surge of goodwill and passion, there’s also an undeniable risk: a single pitch invader or overzealous bystander could disrupt the game—or worse.

In steps Yassine Chueko, the former Navy SEAL turned personal bodyguard, whose quiet confidence and rigorous training have turned him into one of the most recognizable figures in Major League Soccer. Now, as we look ahead to the highly anticipated 2025 season, all eyes aren’t just on Messi; they’re also on the man shadowing him from the sidelines.

Who Is Messi’s Bodyguard? A Name You’ll Want to Know

If you’ve been keeping tabs on Inter Miami (or scrolling through endless social media clips of pitch invasions), you’ve likely spotted Chueko. Perhaps it was his surefooted sprint toward a charging fan or the way he casually diffused a tense situation with nothing but a calm smile and a gentle hand on the shoulder. Make no mistake: his commanding presence doesn’t mean he’s unapproachable. In fact, despite his imposing stature, he’s known for providing unobtrusive security, a skill that allows Messi to engage with fans—even young pitch invaders—without compromising safety.

Yet Chueko’s story isn’t just about heroic sideline dashes. There’s a deeply personal dimension to his life that speaks volumes about who he is when the spotlight is off. He runs his own clothing brand, a passion project that Messi himself has been known to support. Moreover, his public image has soared—he’s now a recognizable figure among football fans worldwide, not just for his Navy SEAL background but for the unique blend of empathy and alertness he brings to the game.

The Sideline Marathon

While most security personnel stay glued to one spot, Chueko redefines the role. He literally jogs the entire length of the pitch with Messi, following his every move. It might look comical to the casual observer—a single figure tracing the steps of the world’s greatest footballer—but it’s no laughing matter when that vigilance prevents disaster. Game after game, fans marvel at this perpetual dance of athletic synergy: Messi gliding past defenders with the ball, and Chueko mirroring his movements from the boundary line.

Rigorous Training, Relatable Heart

Friends and colleagues describe Chueko as someone committed to constant self-improvement. His rigorous training regimen, from boxing drills to martial arts, ensures he’s always game-ready. But talk to people who’ve seen him up close, and they’ll tell you he’s no robot. He’s not just ex-military muscle and eyes of steel; he’s the sort of person who’ll chat kindly with a family in the stadium concourse, then politely—but firmly—redirect a fan who steps over the line. He’s even gained a reputation for gently peeling strangers’ hands off Messi’s shoulders in a way that preserves everyone’s dignity.

Now that you’ve met the man behind the myth, let’s turn to five times he proved his mettle. Think of these as vivid snapshots of Chueko’s “turbo mode,” each incident capturing the interplay between extreme vigilance and measured humanity.

1. The LAFC Tackle That Made Headlines

Date/Context: Inter Miami’s 3-1 win over Los Angeles FC

The Moment: The crowd at BMO Stadium was so electric that one fan couldn’t resist sprinting toward Messi mid-match. Within seconds, Chueko read the situation, took off in a sprint that left jaws dropping, and tackled the fan without causing harm. The moment caught on cameras from every angle exploded on social media.

Why It Was Turbo: Chueko’s pinpoint timing and balance was textbook security work. One second he was standing by the dugout, the next he was in full stride, demonstrating just how seriously he takes his vow to protect Messi—even if it means overshadowing the game for a moment.

2. Running the Show (and the Sideline) in Toronto

Date/Context: A high-stakes MLS match in Toronto

The Moment: With Inter Miami vying for a crucial away result, fans packed the stadium, some specifically to see Messi in action. When a pitch invader hopped the advertising boards, Chueko, who had been jogging up and down the touchline in tandem with Messi, broke into an all-out sprint. Spectators said it looked like a track meet: the intruder darted left, then right, but found no escape from the ex-military operative.

Why It Was Turbo: The sheer distance Chueko covered—and at top speed—emphasized the extent of his dedication. He doesn’t hover passively; he’s constantly in motion, scanning every angle. Even though the pitch invader never stood a chance, observers on social media were left gasping at how quickly Chueko closed the gap.

3. Panama’s Frenzy, Handled With Ease

Date/Context: International friendly in Panama (Inter Miami vs. Sporting San Miguelito)

The Moment: International matches bring a special fervor, and Messi’s first trip back to Panama in years heightened local excitement. One fan decided to make a memory by rushing onto the grass, smartphone in hand. Chueko navigated the crowd, sidestepped security personnel, and intercepted the fan before they collided with Messi.

Why It Was Turbo: Amid the chaos of chanting fans and the flash of cameras, Chueko remained methodical. He acted quickly but without aggression, demonstrating his unobtrusive security approach: crisis averted, dignity preserved, and all eyes still on the match.

4. A Heartfelt Block—and the Photo of a Lifetime

Date/Context: A widely circulated social media clip from an Inter Miami match

The Moment: Sometimes, the fans who breach the boundary are more endearing than threatening—like the starry-eyed teenager who ran straight for his hero. Chueko, vigilant as always, stepped in. Then he paused. Messi signaled his approval, letting the young fan snap a quick selfie. Afterwards, Chueko guided the teenager away from the pitch so he wouldn’t face a severe reprimand from stadium security.

Why It Was Turbo: This incident highlighted Chueko’s empathetic side. His presence is imposing, but he’s also known for giving Messi just enough space to engage with fans safely. That balance is a rare commodity in bodyguarding, earning him significant praise—and, ironically, adding to his own growing public recognition.

5. The Slip That Showed He’s Human, Too—Yet Still Turbo

Date/Context: The now-viral clip of someone “defeating” Messi’s bodyguard

The Moment: In a comedic twist, one pitch invader managed to sidestep Chueko just enough that the bodyguard slipped on the turf, causing him to lose his balance. People watching gasped—until Chueko himself grinned, dusted himself off, and got right back into position.

Why It Was Turbo: Even in a moment of imperfection, Chueko’s recovery was swift, turning an embarrassing slip into an endearing reminder that even the best-trained individuals can stumble. Fans loved seeing him laugh it off, underscoring a character that’s as disarming as his form is intimidating.

Got a favorite Chueko moment we haven’t covered yet? Let us know.