When you think of Cristiano Ronaldo, images of dazzling football skills, record-breaking goals, and a global fanbase probably come to mind.
But with all that fame comes an often overlooked part of his life — the security detail that keeps him safe.
It’s no surprise that someone as famous as Ronaldo has needed bodyguards throughout much of his career to handle the risks that come with being in the spotlight.
The Man Who Guarded Ronaldo for Four Years
One of Ronaldo’s former bodyguards, Hichman Bukhari, recently opened up about his experience protecting the football legend.
Hichman is a close protection operative (CPO) and a private military contractor (PMC) with a strong social media following.
He spent four years working closely with Ronaldo and his family during their time in Madrid.
In an interview, Hichman revealed how much Ronaldo paid him for his services — a solid £850 per day.
But it wasn’t just about the money; it was about ensuring the safety of one of the world’s most recognizable figures.
Not Always a High-Risk Client
Interestingly, Hichman explained that Ronaldo wasn’t exactly a “high-risk” client when it came to threats on his life.
Unlike some celebrities who face constant danger or death threats, Ronaldo’s risks mostly came from fans or people trying to rob him.
There were no serious threats aimed at ending his life.
“Our work depends on the client’s profile,” Hichman said.
“In Cristiano’s case, he wasn’t high-risk because nobody really wanted to kill him, and he didn’t get death threats.
Mostly, we dealt with fans who could get aggressive or people trying to steal from him.”
The Details That Keep Ronaldo Safe
Hichman shared some insight into what protecting someone like Ronaldo involves.
He explained how critical it is to know every detail — where they’re going, who will be there, entry and exit points, and who to contact in case something goes wrong.
“We always have to stay alert because our lives could be at risk,” he said.
“Sometimes, we have to be ready to use weapons if needed.
The most important part is being able to think fast, solve problems calmly, and stay cool under pressure.”
A Unique Boss and Smooth Working Relationship
When asked about working with Ronaldo, Hichman had nothing but praise.
“He’s the best boss I’ve ever had,” he said warmly.
“Our relationship was good, and it didn’t feel like working for someone in constant danger.
Sure, we had some awkward moments with paparazzi or overenthusiastic fans, but nothing serious.”
This insight sheds light on the side of Ronaldo’s life that most fans don’t see — the constant vigilance and behind-the-scenes efforts to keep a football superstar safe, handled by professionals like Hichman.