Lionel Messi reportedly wants Paulo Dybala alongside him for his final Argentina appearance, but Roma would prefer the forward to remain at Trigoria ahead of a demanding October schedule.
Paulo Dybala could be invited to participate in Lionel Messi’s farewell appearance for the Argentina national team.
Messi is scheduled to make his final Albiceleste appearance against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires on October 6.
Several members of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad are expected to attend the occasion, with Messi reportedly hoping that Dybala will also be present.
According to Corriere dello Sport, however, Roma would prefer not to authorize the forward’s journey to Argentina.
Dybala Not Included in Scaloni’s Squad
Lionel Scaloni did not include Dybala in Argentina’s squad for the upcoming international fixtures.
The 32-year-old would therefore not be travelling as part of the regular national-team group. His involvement would instead be connected specifically to the ceremony surrounding Messi’s final international appearance.
Argentina have invited the members of their 2022 World Cup-winning squad to join Messi and their families for the farewell event.
Dybala and Messi shared the pitch during Argentina’s successful campaign in Qatar, with the Roma forward scoring during the penalty shootout victory over France in the final.
Roma Concerned About Intercontinental Travel
Roma’s primary concern is the timing of the proposed trip.
Messi’s farewell match will be played in Buenos Aires on October 6, only five days before Roma visit Como in Serie A on October 11.
Gasperini’s side will then host Real Madrid in the Champions League on October 14 before facing Genoa in Serie A and Slovan Bratislava in Europe.
Roma’s schedule following the break includes:
- October 11: Como vs Roma
- October 14: Roma vs Real Madrid
- October 17: Roma vs Genoa
- October 20: Roma vs Slovan Bratislava
The long-distance journey, time-zone change and limited recovery period could affect Dybala before Roma begin playing approximately every three days.
The club would therefore prefer him to remain at Trigoria, where he could train consistently and prepare for the demanding sequence of fixtures.
Final Decision Has Not Been Made
Roma have not yet made a definitive decision regarding Dybala’s possible participation.
The club must balance the sporting risks of the journey with the emotional importance of the occasion for both Messi and Dybala.
Dybala recently published an emotional tribute to Messi following his international retirement, describing it as an honor to have shared the pitch and Argentina’s World Cup triumph with him.
Roma’s reluctance is not connected to the significance of the farewell. The club’s concern is focused on protecting Dybala’s fitness ahead of a period that includes the Champions League meeting with Real Madrid, who could be without injured midfielder Federico Valverde.
Further discussions are expected before a final decision is reached.
Source: Corriere dello Sport
Leave a Reply