Rome’s international window has taken an unusual turn, with Roma confirming that Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina will not travel to Buenos Aires for Argentina’s 6 October friendly against Benin, the match set to mark Lionel Messi’s final farewell with the national team.
Roma prioritises the club calendar
The decision removes two Argentina internationals from an evening at the Monumental Stadium that is expected to centre on Messi’s closing appearance for the Albiceleste.
- Dybala and Molina will not take part in Argentina’s friendly with Benin on 6 October.
- The match will be played at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium.
- Roma cited sporting and logistical considerations in declining their involvement.
- The club pointed to the length of the intercontinental journey and the closeness of upcoming official fixtures.
A tribute planned in Buenos Aires
Roma acknowledged the significance of the call-up for both players, particularly given their connection with Messi and their place among the Argentina squad that won the 2022 World Cup.
While keeping Dybala and Molina available for the club programme, Roma expressed its respect for Messi’s career and sent its best wishes to both the forward and the Argentine Football Association for what it described as a special occasion.
Argentina’s meeting with Benin will therefore serve as Messi’s definitive goodbye to the national side, in the stadium where Buenos Aires will gather to mark the end of his Albiceleste journey.
