Lionel Messi’s bodyguard stepped in to deal with a pitch invaderCredit: Getty

The incident occurred during Inter Miami’s 3-1 win over LAFCCredit: AP

Messi, 35, has been a smash hit at Inter Miami ever since his summer move from Paris Saint-Germain.

The Argentina legend has 11 goals and five assists in as many games for David Beckham’s MLS franchise.

And Messi’s latest match saw him fly to California for an away day at Los Angeles FC.

The veteran helped himself to two assists as Inter Miami won 3-1.

A host of A-list celebrities watched him light up the pitch from the stands.

And there was even a splash of royalty present as Prince Harry descended from his Montecito mansion to take in the action, with wife Meghan Markle nowhere to be seen despite also being on the VIP list.

But Messi got a small scare during the match when a pitch invader charged towards him from the stands.

The fan wore a Barcelona shirt with Messi’s name on the back.

Messi’s bodyguard is a former US Navy Seal and MMA fighterCredit: AP

Prince Harry was among the celebs who watched the gameCredit: Getty

And he managed to make it all the way to the icon before Messi’s personal bodyguard grabbed him and hauled him away.

Yassine Chueko is a former soldier and MMA fighter who has been hired to protect Messi at all times.

Acting as the footballer’s shadow, Chueko has been regularly spotted by fans as matches stalking the touchline to ensure he’s never far from his target.

Chueko is a former Navy Seal with experience in Iraq and Afghanistan.

And his timely action yesterday showed he is deservedly earning his wages.