San Marino club Murata had wanted to recruit the pair for Tuesday's qualifying round tie against Gothenburg in what will be only their second appearance in Europe's premier club competition.

Coach Massimo Agostini convinced former Roma and Brazil star Aldair to join in time for the club's foray into Europe last season and was eager to bring in Schumacher and Romario in time for this year's campaign.

Aldair had sounded out his compatriot who was reportedly keen to take part, but the 42-year-old has had to reject the opportunity because of personal reasons.

"On May 23 his father died and he told Aldair that he didn't feel it was right to leave everyone to come and play," Murata sporting director Denis Casadei told Eurosport.

"It is a shame because we were close to this dream .

"However, we still have another champion with us in Aldair who I would like to thanks on behalf of the whole club for the support he is giving us.

"He passed the medical tests and he will definitely play against Gothenburg."

Schumacher, who is an ambassador to the tiny republic has also turned down Murata's offer, reportedly due to physical problems.

The seven-time world champion is a keen footballer and often makes appearances in charity football matches, but Casadei insists Schumacher was never set to play for the side.

"On this discussion I would like to clarify that the invitation to Schumacher was of course not to play, but only for his presence at the event," he added.

"He thanked us, he said he felt honoured but it can not happen because of unbreakable commitments."

Murata, who lost 4-1 on aggregate to Finnish club Tampere United at the same stage last season, play the first leg on July 15 with the return fixture taking place on July 23.