AS Roma keep Dybala and Molina from Messi farewell

Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina will be absent from Lionel Messi’s Argentina farewell after AS Roma decided not to release them for the occasion. The ruling separates the two 2022 world champions from Messi at what is expected to be his final international appearance.

Argentina are due to face Benin on October 6 at Buenos Aires’ Monumental stadium, where the fixture has been arranged as a celebration of Messi’s international career. Messi announced his retirement from Argentina duty during the summer. Dybala and Molina have close ties with the captain from their time in the national team.

Molina played in every match of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup campaign, while Dybala came off the bench in both the semi-final and final. Dybala has not been selected since 2024, whereas Molina has remained a regular under Lionel Scaloni.

Roma said the decision was based on sporting and logistical considerations, including the intercontinental journey and the schedule that follows the international break. The club lead Serie A and are due to visit Como on October 11 before hosting Real Madrid in the Champions League three days later. That calendar leaves Dybala and Molina with club commitments instead of Messi’s farewell in Buenos Aires.