The former bodyguard of Cristiano Ronaldo has spoken frankly about the requirements and risks of his profession, revealing that “you must be willing to give your life” to protect a client.
Living with and prepared to die for Ronaldo
Hichman, who worked for the Portuguese football player for four years, spoke with Tardear about the reality of private security – a work that is often dressed in mystery and recently brought into spotlight by the viral fame of Yassine Cheuko, Lionel Messi's Bodyguard in Inter Miami.
“Our work depends on the client's profile. In the Cristiano case, although I worked with him for four years, his profile was not considered a high risk of people not trying to kill him, he was not under the death threats,” he said. “The threats came from overy fans or people who want to steal from him.”
But that didn't mean that the work was easy. As one of the most recognized figures on the planet, Ronaldo's presence attracted intense public attention. “We always have to know where we are going, who will be there and have clear exit and access points, as well as contact points,” Hichman explained.
He emphasized that his bodyguard is never risk -free. “You always have to keep in mind that your life will be in danger. You have to be ready to protect someone – and sometimes that means ready to give your life. If I have to use weapons, I will use them.”
Hichman said he received € 1,000 (about $ 1,080) for every day who worked with Ronaldo. He also rejected the idea that brutal power or an impressive physique is essential in his work. “The most important thing is to think quickly, solve problems and stay calm in complicated situations.”
Cristiano was “one of the best bosses”
Thinking about his time with the five -time balloon d'Or winner, he had nothing but praise. “He is one of the best bosses I've ever had. We have a good relationship. It was not like working with someone threatened with murder or kidnapping. We had a few incidents with paparazzi or fans who went a bit crazy, but nothing more serious than that.”
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