A tenacious fan managed to give Lionel Messi’s bodyguard the slip to embrace his hero during an Inter Miami friendly on Sunday.
Yassine Chueko, known for his viral moments as he fiercely protects Messi from fans during matches, has always been ready for anything.
After transitioning from Paris, where he safeguarded Messi at Paris Saint-Germain, Chueko was called to action Stateside last April when he spotted a fan sprinting from behind one of the goals towards the football icon.
And he was called into action at the weekend, during the friendly between Inter Miami and Panama-based club Sporting San Miguelito where one audacious fan managed to outpace and dodge Chueko.
The fan was keen to snap a selfie with Messi but Chueko tackled him eventually, with stadium security rushing to help.
In the viral footage, the bodyguard can be seen bolting towards the fan in a dramatic bid to safeguard the superstar.
Although Chueko seemed poised to intercept before the supporter could reach Messi, he unexpectedly stumbled after the fan sidestepped by him.
The fan then lost his balance, and bumped into Chueko’s legs, sending him sprawling onto his back.
The tumble allowed the fan a fleeting moment to embrace Messi before Chueko quickly regained his footing with a subtle smile on his face as he processed the unexpected fall.
One amused spectator remarked on X: “The bodyguard couldn’t contain his laughter as he got up.”
Another said: “He dribbled the bodyguard like Messi used to do against his opponents.”
A third observed: “Even the bodyguard had to give him some credit.”
Chueko was reportedly brought on board at the specific request of Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham to ensure the star player’s safety.
This strategic decision came against the backdrop of an alarming rise in pitch invaders, especially as Messi’s arrival in Miami in 2023 generated an incredible wave of attention.
Just after Messi’s debut, a captivating video circulated on social media, showcasing Chueko poised at the entrance of the team’s bus.
He permitted several players to pass by, but when Messi appeared, Chueko sprang into action.
Jorge Mas, co-owner of Inter Miami, emphasised the team’s commitment to Messi’s security, a promise he made during his campaign to bring Messi to the States in June 2023.
“Security will be enhanced,” he shared with the Miami Herald.
“Players will be bussed in, going through a tunnel. All of those security protocols are already prepared for both home and away games.
“And it’s not only for our games; it’s going to be a daily routine.”
Chueko, a former Navy SEAL with service in Iraq and Afghanistan, also boasts skills in martial arts, taekwondo, boxing, and has even competed in several MMA fights.