Lionel Messi’s arrival in the United States was a revolution for MLS football and a massive triumph for team co-owners David Beckham and Jorge Mas. And while both of them are happy to enjoy the droves of fans that want to see his magnetic play — he’s scored ten goals and assisted three in eight games since his debut on July 21 — , they’d rather people stay away from him off it. That’s why they’ve appointed a bodyguard who follows Messi at all times, even when the World Cup-winner celebrates his goals.

Yassine Chueko is a former US Navy Seal whose sole mission is to protect Messi at every turn. Not only does Chueko follow the Argentine star as he’s entering or leaving the stadium, but also in each training session, warm-up and any activity linked to the franchise. The bodyguard even follows him from outside the pitch while he’s playing in order to remain close in case anything happens.

The concern for Messi’s safety was present even before the Argentine star debuted. “I think the club isn’t ready for Messi’s arrival”, said now ex-Herons goalkeeper Nick Marsman in June 2023. “We play in a temporary stadium, people could rush into the field out of the euphoria of seeing Messi. We play without security.”

Cheuko, who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan in 2001, was reportedly selected personally by David Beckham for the job. He’s also an expert in martial arts, taekwondo and boxing, and has participated in Mixed Martial Arts combats.

“The strong man is not a good fighter or a good boxer, the strong man is only the one who controls himself when he is angry,” reads his Instagram profile, where he’s published a number of pictures of himself training and practicing martial arts.

Chueko’s mission is to guard the physical integrity of the captain of the Argentine National Team, intercepting anyone who invades the pitch and tries to approach him. His closest call came in the match against Philadelphia Union when a fan wearing an Inter Miami jersey made it past security and tried to hug Messi, but the bodyguard jumped into action and took the supporter off.

Chueko can also be seen behind the lines, running alongside the Rosario-born whenever he celebrates a goal or roams around the pitch.