Pope Francis has told the footballers representing Argentina and Italy, including striker Mario Balotelli, that they must lead by example off the pitch.

The AC Milan hitman, as well as Barcelona star Lionel Messi, met the pontiff at the Vatican ahead of the international friendly in Rome.

"It's going to be difficult for me, it's lucky it's a friendly match!" Sky News quotes Pope Francis as saying. "And let's make sure it is one."

"You, dear players, are very popular. People follow your example, off the pitch as well as on. You have a social responsibility."

Despite Messi being in attendance, the prolific forward will miss the match due to injury.