Lionel Messi is currently plying his trade in United States’ Major League Soccer following a shocking move away from Paris Saint-Germain
Argentine forward Lionel Messi has frequently been seen accompanied by a bodyguard during and after games since his move to Major League Soccer in the United States, as reported by Soccernet.ng.
Meanwhile, Al-Wehda FC striker Odion Ighalo has expressed his willingness to play in the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) under certain conditions, including security concerns.
Given the Nigerian league’s reputation for lacking security measures, coupled with the country’s challenges with insurgency and kidnapping, Messi’s approach could offer a potential solution to Ighalo’s conditions.
Messi’s personal bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko, is often seen patrolling the sidelines and remaining vigilant while Messi is on the field.
Cheuko was reportedly hired to protect Messi following a recommendation from Inter Miami club president David Beckham.
Cheuko’s role involves running along the edge of the pitch and closely monitoring Messi during games to intercept any potential pitch invaders attempting to approach the Miami captain.
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Meanwhile, Ighalo, who previously played for Prime and Julius Berger in the Nigerian Football League before embarking on his European journey with Lyn, has expressed his desire to return to the league.
In an interview on Elegbete TV, Ighalo stated his readiness to play in the Nigerian league for a period of six months to one year without a salary, provided there is adequate security, media coverage, and competent refereeing.
He also emphasized that improvements in security, officiating standards, and the eradication of hooliganism and corruption are necessary for him to retire in his country’s league.
The adoption of Lionel Messi’s security approach could present a significant solution for Ighalo’s potential return to the NPFL to retire.