AS Rome blocks Dybala and Molina, keeping them from Messi's farewell

AS Roma announced on Tuesday that it will not release Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina to attend Lionel Messi's farewell ceremony with the Argentine national team, scheduled for October 6 during the friendly match against Benin at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

Sporting and logistical reasons

The Italian club issued a statement on Tuesday, stating that the decision was driven by sporting and logistical reasons. “AS Roma announces that Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina will not take part in the event organized in Argentina on the occasion of the match between Argentina and Benin on October 6,” the statement reads. The intercontinental distance and the proximity of the club's upcoming official matches were cited.

AS Roma emphasized its deep respect for Messi's career and wished a special evening to the Argentine Federation. The club recalled that it recognizes the importance of the event for the two players, who have a close relationship with the Argentine icon.

Messi's farewell ceremony

Lionel Messi announced his international retirement this summer, a few weeks after the Albiceleste's loss in the World Cup final against Spain (1‑0 after extra time). The Argentine federation has scheduled a final friendly at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires to give him a grand farewell celebration. Dybala and Molina will watch it from afar.

Roma blocks travel for Dybala and Molina to Messi farewell

Both players were part of the 2022 World Cup‑winning squad. Nahuel Molina played every match of the tournament, while Paulo Dybala featured in the semi‑final and final. Dybala has not been called up since 2024, whereas Molina remains a staple under Lionel Scaloni.

Molina, transferred from Atlético de Madrid to Rome this summer, took part in seven of Argentina's eight matches at the 2026 World Cup, which ended with the same defeat to Spain. Both are key members of Gian Piero Gasperini's squad, currently leading Serie A.

Roma stops Dybala and Molina, Trigoria focuses on Como

After the international break, AS Roma will have two major fixtures: a league trip to Como on October 11, followed three days later by hosting Real Madrid in the Champions League.