Yassine Cheuko, who acts as full time security for the Ballon d’Or winner, took to social media to criticize stadium staff for their poor work
Lionel Messi’s private security, Yassine Cheuko, took to Instagram to call for heightened security around stadiums following an outbreak of successful pitch invasions of avid fans towards the eight-time Ballon d’Or Winner.
Cheuko, who has been thrust into the spotlight since Messi’s high-profile move to Miami, claimed that most security staff “are not fully focused on fulfilling their duties.”
The former MMA fighter released a lengthy statement highlighting his desire to be out of the spotlight: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the stadium security teams in Honduras and Peru for their professionalism and assistance, which have been truly invaluable to me.
“It is not my role to apprehend fans who invade the field. That is the responsibility of the stadium security staff. But let’s be honest: most of them — and I emphasize most, without generalizing — are not fully focused on their duties. Instead of ensuring security, they are more occupied with watching the game or taking photos and videos.
“And because they are not paying attention, I made the decision, on my own initiative, to step in and handle the situation in case of an intrusion.
“Please, gentlemen of the security staff, I ask you with all the respect and seriousness this deserves: stay vigilant. Do the job you are paid to do.
“The safety of the stadium, the players, and the fans depends on you. I will always be there to support you, always ready to intervene when needed. But if you do not do your part, this mission becomes very difficult for me to handle alone.
“I am not a celebrity, and I have no ego. I don’t make 3 millions of dollars a year , as some media may claim. I am simply a worker, like millions of others, giving my best every day to accomplish my mission with dedication and honor.
“My role is to ensure the safety of the people I work with and to harm no fans., and for that, I am ready to do whatever it takes.
“I am ready to run across the field in sneakers. To fall face down in front of thousands of people. To get tackled, shoved, and humiliated if necessary. None of that matters to me.
Because my image doesn’t count—only my mission matters. And if one day I have to give my life to fulfill my duty, I will do it without hesitation.
Because beyond what others think, beyond the struggles, beyond the sacrifices—what truly defines me is my commitment. My purpose. Thank you all. Take care. May God bless and protect you, for He is the true protector.”
Cheuko has been in the headlines recently after failing to apprehend an invader during Miami’s preseason clash with Panamanian side Sporting San Miguelito. The MMA enthusiast slipped on the pitch and allowed a fan to hug the great Argentine before he could be dragged away.
