Roma leave Dybala and Molina out of Messi farewell fixture

AS Roma has ruled out Argentina internationals Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina from the country’s October 6 farewell match for Lionel Messi against Benin. The Italian club said sporting and logistical considerations were behind the decision. It cited the length of the intercontinental journey and the closeness of official club commitments.

Roma said it recognised the importance of the fixture to both players. Dybala and Molina were members of Argentina’s squad that won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and have played alongside Messi for the national team. In a statement, the club said the decision was not a sign of disregard for Messi or for the significance of the match.

Roma said it had the utmost respect for the Argentina captain and his career. The club also extended its wishes to Messi and the Argentine Football Association ahead of the fixture, which is expected to form part of celebrations surrounding Messi’s international career. Dybala and Molina will therefore miss the occasion despite their previous roles in Argentina’s team.

The source material does not state whether either player had been formally selected for the match before Roma announced that they would not be involved. The decision leaves the two Roma players unavailable for an event linking Argentina’s current international programme with Messi’s farewell. The match against Benin is scheduled for October 6.

Roma’s announcement focused on travel demands and the club calendar, rather than any lack of appreciation for Messi. The club said the players themselves were closely connected to the occasion through their World Cup victory and their relationship with the Argentina captain.