Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina will not be allowed by the Italian club AS Roma to travel for the international farewell of legendary star Lionel Messi. The historic event in the world of football is scheduled for October 6 during a friendly match between the Argentina national team and Benin at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires. The legendary forward announced his international retirement earlier this summer following the World Cup final defeat against Spain.
AS Roma justifies the decision
Despite acknowledging the deep connection between the Argentine players and Lionel Messi, who won the 2022 World Cup together, the management of AS Roma officially announced that the trip would not happen. Citing sporting and logistical reasons, the Serie A club pointed to the heavy burden of intercontinental travel and the proximity of crucial upcoming fixtures in domestic and European football.
Key figures of the squad
Both players play a crucial role under the guidance of coach Gian Piero Gasperini at AS Roma, a team currently leading the Italian Serie A standings. Nahuel Molina remains a regular starter since his summer transfer, while Paulo Dybala aims to regain full prominence after previously missing out on recent call-ups for the Albiceleste squad.
Next fixtures for the club
Following the international break, the Giallorossi will face demanding tests in competitive football. AS Roma will travel to face Como in the league on October 11 before hosting Spanish giants Real Madrid three days later in the prestigious context of the UEFA Champions League.
Photo : Olga Shcherbytska — CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
