Roma block Molina despite reduced World Cup ban ahead of November friendlies

Roma confirmed on Monday that they will not release right‑back Nahuel Molina for Argentina’s upcoming November friendlies, even though FIFA has cut his World Cup final suspension from seven matches to four. He has already served three of the reduced suspension during the September‑October international break, leaving only one match to miss.

World Cup final incident and sanctions

FIFA originally handed Molina a seven‑match ban and a $77,000 fine for violent conduct at the end of the 2026 World Cup final. Spain defeated Argentina 1‑0 after extra time in that final. His teammate and former Roma midfielder Leandro Paredes received a ten‑match ban and a $90,000 fine. On Saturday it was confirmed that Molina’s suspension had been reduced to four matches, and he had already served three of them during the September‑October international break, leaving one game remaining.

Argentina friendlies and Roma’s decision

Argentina will contest two friendlies in the November international break, first against Uruguay and then Costa Rica, and Molina is eligible for the second match. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni tried to include Molina in the squad at the last minute, but Roma informed the Argentine FA they will not release him and he is expected to report to training with the Giallorossi on Wednesday. The final was played on 19 July 2026 at the New York‑New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, where Molina wore number 26 for Argentina and Rodri wore number 16 for Spain. On 11 October 2026, during a Serie A clash at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium, Lucas Da Cunha of Como 1907 passed the ball under pressure from Molina of AS Roma.