This is how much Messi's bodyguard earns. It might make your head spin
Yassine Chueko, the man who never leaves Lionel Messi's side, is often seen near the pitch during the Argentine's Major League Soccer matches. The eight-time Golden Ball winner pays him a considerable sum.
7:53 AM EST, November 20, 2023
Lionel Messi is considered one of the finest soccer players of all time. His immense popularity soared when he moved to the American MLS league, causing some to refer to the phenomenon as "Messimania".
From the moment Messi arrived, he instantly became the primary star of the league. Crowds of fans flock to various stadiums to watch him play live, willing to pay considerable amounts for tickets.
Messi is accompanied by a bodyguard every day. A few months ago, it was revealed that Yassine Chueko filled this role. According to media reports, David Beckham, the owner of Inter Miami, personally recommended Chueko to Messi.
"The Daily Mail" provided further details about Chueko. He previously served in the US Army and participated in missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Chueko also possesses experience in martial arts. He has trained in taekwondo, kickboxing, and boxing. He had a kickboxing match in Thailand a while back and knocked out his opponent.
Chueko's earnings might make your head spin. It's speculated that he receives up to 3 million dollars yearly for his duties (Spanish outlet "AS" even suggests 3.5 million). This equates to an incredible sum of around 12 million zlotys (approximately 3.06 million dollars). To compare, an "average" security guard in the US earns about 80,000 dollars a year (around 203,200 zlotys).
As a former soldier, Chueko carries a significant responsibility. Throughout the season, he's proven that Messi can rely on him. After one of the matches, he successfully thwarted a fan who was charging toward the Argentine.