AS Roma has officially blocked Argentine internationals Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina from traveling to Buenos Aires for Lionel Messi’s upcoming international farewell match against Benin, citing sporting and logistical constraints. The decision keeps both players in Italy ahead of the club’s upcoming fixture slate.
Roma Cites Intercontinental Travel and Schedule Proximity
The Italian club announced the ruling regarding the two World Cup winners, confirming they will not participate in the celebratory fixture scheduled for October 6 at the Estadio Monumental. According to a club statement reported across international sports outlets, the restriction stems from practical calendar hurdles and the physical toll of a transatlantic journey.
“The club’s choice responds to sporting and logistical reasons, related to the duration of the intercontinental trip and the proximity of official commitments,” the Italian entity explained in its official release.
While denying permission for the trip, Roma acknowledged the deep personal and professional significance of the event for both athletes. Dybala and Molina shared the pitch with Messi during Argentina’s triumphant run to the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar. The club’s statement expressed profound respect for Messi’s extraordinary career and wished both the player and the Argentine Football Association a memorable evening in the capital.
Weighing Club Obligations Against National Honors
The fixture at the Monumental serves as Messi’s final formal appearance in an Argentina shirt on home soil. Head coach Lionel Scaloni’s squad will proceed with the exhibition against Benin without the two Serie A regulars.
For Roma, managing player fitness through grueling international breaks remains a priority as domestic and European competitions progress. The rapid turnaround between the South American fixture and upcoming league fixtures ultimately tipped the scale against granting travel clearance for Dybala and Molina.
Fixture Outlook in Buenos Aires
Messi prepares to lead the Albiceleste one last time before home supporters in Buenos Aires.
