Roma apologise to Lionel Messi as Dybala and Molina miss Argentina farewell

AS Roma have apologised to Lionel Messi after confirming that Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina will not travel to Argentina for the ceremony marking the forward’s farewell.

The club said the players would not take part in Argentina’s match against Benin on 6 October, acknowledging the significance of the occasion for both of them.

“Roma understands the importance of this event for both players, who have a close relationship with Lionel Messi and were part of the Argentina team that won the 2022 World Cup alongside him,” the club said in a statement published on its official website.

The decision was announced three days after reports first emerged that the players would not be released to attend the event.

Roma insisted the decision had not been taken for disciplinary reasons. Instead, the club said it was based on “sporting and logistical reasons, taking into account the length of the intercontinental journey and the proximity of the club’s upcoming competitive fixtures”.

Gian Piero Gasperini’s side are scheduled to face Como in Serie A on Sunday, 11 October, before hosting Real Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday, 14 October.

The club also pointed out that neither player would feature in the Argentina match. Dybala was not included in the squad, while Molina is serving the middle part of a seven-match international suspension imposed after the 2026 World Cup final, according to Football Italia.

Roma said there had been no intention to cause offence and ended its statement by reiterating its respect for Messi and his career.

“Roma holds the greatest respect for Lionel Messi and his extraordinary career, and wishes him and the Argentine Football Association a very special evening,” the club said.

The statement was posted by AS Roma English on 29 September 2026.