Lionel Messi's Bodyguard Reportedly Suspended By Leagues Cup for Improper Conduct

Lionel Messi's bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko, was reportedly suspended for the remainder of the Leagues Cup for his actions following Inter Miami's 2-1 victory over Atlas on Wednesday.

According to ESPN's Lizzy Becherano, Cheuko received a suspension for entering the pitch after the match without authorization in order to break up a discussion between both teams. He also made contact with Atlas players while doing so.

Atlas defender Matheus Doria discussed the situation with reporters on Friday.

"I understand that Messi's bodyguard is there to protect Messi from a possible entry by a fan, I don't know, but between players, he doesn't have that permission," Doria said, via Becherano.

"It's not up to us to say much or give our opinion on the matter, but the board and those in charge of the Leagues Cup have already seen it and will take charge of what can and can't be done because as long as it protects not only Messi but the other players, and the physical integrity of the players who are there, that's fine," he added. "But if it's for other issues, no one will agree, but it's not up to me to do anything."

In April, Cheuko revealed that he was no longer allowed to patrol the touchline during Messi's matches in order to stop fans from potentially invading the pitch. He remains an Inter Miami employee and part of the club's security detail, though.

Inter Miami has three points in the Leagues Cup following its win on Wednesday and will look to secure one of the top four MLS spots in the Phase One standings in order to advance to the quarterfinals.

If Inter Miami ends up making the final or the third-place match, Cheuko's suspension will run through Aug. 31.