Roma explain why Dybala and Molina will miss Messi’s Argentina farewell

AS Roma have confirmed that Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina will not travel to Argentina for Lionel Messi’s farewell event, saying the decision was based on sporting and logistical considerations rather than disciplinary reasons.

The club said the two players would miss Argentina’s match against Benin on 6 October, acknowledging the significance of the occasion for both men.

“Roma understands the importance of this occasion for both players, who share a close relationship with Lionel Messi and were part of the Argentina team that won the 2022 World Cup alongside him,” the club said in a statement published on its official website.

The explanation came three days after initial reports that the Serie A club had refused to release the players for the event.

Roma said the decision had been taken with “the length of the intercontinental journey and the proximity of the club’s next competitive matches” in mind.

Gian Piero Gasperini’s side are due to face Como in Serie A on Sunday, 11 October, before hosting Real Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday, 14 October.

The club also pointed out that neither Dybala nor Molina would play in the Argentina fixture. Dybala was not included in the squad, while Molina is serving the middle portion of a seven-match international suspension imposed after the 2026 World Cup final, according to Football Italia.

Roma said there had been no intention to show disrespect towards Messi, who is being honoured during Argentina’s fixture against Benin.

“Roma holds the greatest respect for Lionel Messi and his exceptional career, and wishes him and the Argentine Football Association a very special evening,” the statement added.

Dybala and Molina were members of Argentina’s squad for the 2022 World Cup triumph and maintain a close relationship with Messi. Despite that connection, Roma decided they should remain with the club because of the travel involved and the demanding schedule that follows the international event.