Lionel Messi is not just a football icon. He is a global superstar. Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, his presence has drawn massive crowds, celebrity attention, and increased security risks. To keep Messi safe in his new surroundings, the club hired a personal bodyguard whose role and Messi Bodyguard Salary have become a central talking point among fans.
Who Is Messi’s Bodyguard?
Messi’s bodyguard is Yassine Chueko, a former U.S. Navy SEAL with combat experience in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is also highly trained in martial arts, including boxing, taekwondo, and MMA. His skill set makes him one of the most qualified bodyguards in professional sports.
Yassine was reportedly selected personally by David Beckham, part-owner of Inter Miami, to protect Messi and his family after the footballer’s high-profile move to the United States.
What Does He Do?
Chueko is always at Messi’s side on and off the pitch. He walks the sidelines during matches to protect against pitch invaders, a growing concern in football. Fans have seen him sprinting when someone approaches Messi on the field, often reacting faster than stadium stewards.
Beyond match days, Chueko manages a 50-person security team that protects Messi, his family, and his public movements. He even shadows Messi during training sessions, travel, and appearances, ensuring constant safety without being disruptive.
How Much Does Messi’s Bodyguard Earn?
Multiple sources report that Yassine Chueko earns an annual Messi Bodyguard Salary of $3.5 million, approximately £2.8 million. This figure places him among the highest-paid personal security professionals in sports.
His salary reflects the high-stakes nature of protecting a figure like Messi, who is not only a footballer but also a brand ambassador, a family man, and a cultural icon. The job involves rapid decision-making, physical endurance, and deep trust from the Messi family.
Public Response and Online Fame
Chueko has developed his own online fan base, with clips of his swift reactions going viral. Some fans admire his intense focus and professionalism, while others joke that he could start a career in football with his athletic speed.
He remains quiet in public, rarely speaking to the media, and prefers to keep the focus on Messi. Still, his social media following continues to grow, thanks to his visible and dedicated presence at every Messi event.
Conclusion
Messi’s move to Inter Miami elevated not just the MLS but also the expectations around his safety. In Yassine Chueko, he has found a bodyguard who is as committed and elite in his field as Messi is in his.
Messi Bodyguard Salary of $3.5 million a year, Chueko plays a critical behind-the-scenes role in Messi’s American journey. His presence allows the football legend to perform without distraction, knowing that his safety is in the hands of a true professional.
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