Messi's Miami Bodyguard's Hefty Paycheck Revealed: The Surprising Salary of the Argentine Star's Personal Protector

Messi's Bodyguard Earns $3.5 Million Annually—More Than Most MLS Players

Lionel Messi's personal security at Inter Miami comes with a hefty price tag that rivals some of the league's top salaries. Yassine Chueko, a Tunisian-American former Navy veteran turned mixed martial artist, commands an annual compensation package worth up to $3.5 million—making him one of the highest-paid non-playing staff members in Major League Soccer history.

A Security Investment That Reflects Messi's Economic Impact

According to Spanish publication Marca, Chueko receives a base salary of $3 million per year, with performance bonuses that can add another $500,000 if he successfully completes his protective duties throughout the season. This compensation structure underscores the critical importance Inter Miami places on safeguarding their most valuable asset.

The salary figure becomes even more striking when compared to MLS player wages. The median MLS salary hovers around $600,000, meaning Messi's bodyguard earns nearly six times more than the average professional soccer player in the league. Even compared to designated players—MLS's highest earners—Chueko's compensation ranks among the top tier.

David Beckham's Personal Recommendation

Chueko's appointment came through a direct recommendation from Inter Miami co-owner and president David Beckham, who understood the unique security challenges that accompany a global superstar of Messi's caliber. The choice reflects careful vetting of someone with exceptional credentials.

Military Pedigree Meets Modern Security Needs

Chueko brings a rare combination of military experience and combat sports expertise to the role. As a former U.S. Navy serviceman who deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, he possesses the tactical awareness and crisis management skills essential for high-profile protection work. His subsequent transition to mixed martial arts demonstrates the physical capabilities required to handle potential threats in civilian settings.

The Economics of Protecting a Global Icon

While $3.5 million may seem excessive for security services, the investment makes financial sense when viewed against Messi's broader economic impact. The Argentine superstar's arrival in Miami generated an estimated $20 million in additional season ticket revenue alone, not including merchandise sales, sponsorship premiums, and increased media rights values.

Professional sports teams have increasingly recognized that protecting marquee players extends beyond physical safety to preserving massive financial investments. In the NBA, stars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry employ similar high-level security, though exact compensation figures rarely become public.

Comparisons to Other Elite Protection Details

Chueko's salary aligns with compensation levels for executive protection specialists serving Fortune 500 CEOs and A-list entertainers. Top-tier bodyguards for celebrities like Taylor Swift or tech executives often command similar annual packages, particularly when the role requires 24/7 availability and international travel.

Setting New Standards for Athlete Security

The public disclosure of Chueko's compensation may signal a shift toward greater transparency in sports security spending. As player salaries continue climbing and global fan engagement intensifies, teams are likely to view professional protection as a necessary operational expense rather than an optional luxury.

For Inter Miami, the investment represents more than just keeping Messi safe—it's about protecting the franchise's transformation from MLS afterthought to global destination. With Chueko's military background and substantial compensation package, the club has signaled that safeguarding their superstar is worth paying premium prices.