Why Gasperini blocked Dybala, Molina from Messi’s Argentina farewell
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineAS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has explained why Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina will not travel to Argentina to watch Lionel Messi’s final appearance for the national team.
Messi is expected to bid farewell to international football when Argentina face Benin in a friendly on Wednesday.
Although Dybala and Molina were not included in Argentina’s squad for the current international break, the Roma pair had hoped to make the trip and watch the occasion from the stands.
Gasperini, however, decided against allowing them to make the long journey because of Roma’s packed schedule after the international break.
Roma are preparing for a crucial Serie A meeting with Como on Sunday before facing Real Madrid.
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia on Monday, Gasperini said: “We are too close to an important game like our one on Sunday [to let Dybala and Molina fly to and from Argentina].
“We’re a long way from Argentina and sending them there would have meant making them fly for a lot of hours so close to the match and Roma preferred for that not to happen.”
Despite the decision, Gasperini acknowledged the significance of Messi’s farewell and the impact the Argentina captain has had throughout his career.
He said: “Messi’s farewell will be emotional.
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“Personally, I’ve seen lots of star players, initially as a player myself and then as a coach, but it’s hard to think of anyone who’s achieved what Lionel has. “I’m sorry to see his career with the Albiceleste come to an end.”
Dybala and Molina have 105 international caps between them and share a close relationship with Messi.
Several Serie A players will, however, be involved in the farewell, including Inter captain Lautaro Martinez, Juventus winger Nico Gonzalez and Como forward Nico Paz.
Roma players Leonardo Balerdi, Matias Soule and Santiago Castro are also part of the Argentina squad for the occasion.
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