The League Cup Disciplinary Committee has announced that members of the Inter Miami delegation will be banned from all technical areas for the rest of the tournament due to a post-match incident involving Atlas at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on Wednesday night.
Sources inform ESPN that the individual facing suspension is Yassy Choco, Lionel Messi’s bodyguard.
In a statement, the Disciplinary Committee noted, "After the Inter Miami CF versus Club Atlas match on July 30, members of the Inter Miami delegation exhibited inappropriate behavior by entering a restricted area without official clearance."
As per the League Cup 2025 Tournament Regulations, those affected have been barred from technical zones for the remainder of the tournament, and the club, along with Inter Miami, has been fined privately.
Choco reportedly entered the field after the game, disrupting discussions between players of both teams and making contact with Atlas personnel.
Atlas defender Matheus Doria commented during a press conference on Friday, emphasizing that Choco did not have permission to approach the pitch regarding player interactions.
"Our management is addressing the situation efficiently. While I recognize that Messi’s bodyguard is there to ensure his safety from fans, he doesn’t have the authorization to intervene among players," Doria stated.
"It’s not our place to comment extensively, but the league and appropriate authorities are monitoring it to ensure the safety of all players, including Messi."
Previously, Choco was prohibited from being present on the sidelines during major league soccer matches involving Inter Miami, although he continued to serve in the club’s security.
Fan Take: This incident highlights a crucial aspect of sportsmanship and player safety, reminding us that boundaries must be respected within the game. For soccer fans, it underscores the need for strict regulations to maintain the integrity of the sport and protect its most valuable athletes.
