Brentford’s Michael Kayode Chooses Italy Over Nigeria, Says It’s a Very Easy Decision
Brentford defender Michael Kayode has revealed that Nigeria approached him about representing the country at international level, but said he never considered switching his international allegiance from Italy.
Kayode, 22, has represented Italy throughout the youth ranks and has now received his first senior call-up to the Italian national team ahead of the country’s upcoming international fixtures.
Speaking about his international future, Kayode said his decision to represent Italy was straightforward after progressing through the country’s youth teams.
“It was a very easy decision. I went through all the youth teams here. Nigeria approached me, but I never thought about changing national teams,” he said, according to Football Italia.
The defender also described representing Italy as an honour, adding that he has always regarded the country as having a strong national team.
Kayode previously helped Italy win the European Under-19 Championship, scoring the winning goal in the final against Portugal as the Azzurri claimed the title for the first time.
He said he only learned about his senior call-up after Brentford’s match against Chelsea, discovering the news on his phone at the final whistle.
“It was an incredible emotion, especially after such a big win,” he said.
Kayode began his professional career with Fiorentina before joining Brentford on loan in January 2025 in a deal reportedly worth €500,000, with an option to buy.
Brentford later made the move permanent for a reported €17.5 million.
The defender has made 63 appearances for Brentford, scoring two goals and providing three assists, according to the information provided for the report.
Kayode also identified former Italy defender Paolo Maldini as his main football inspiration, particularly because of his defensive qualities.
“Many full-backs inspire me, but the main one is Maldini. I love defending, and I believe he is the exception in this sport worldwide,” he said.
The Brentford defender has also attracted attention for his long throw-ins, a skill he said he discovered and developed further after joining the English club.
“One day, I woke up and found out I could do long throw-ins,” Kayode said.
He explained that Brentford has a coach who focuses on the technique and that the club has incorporated it into training and matches.
Kayode’s senior Italy call-up now represents the latest stage of his international career after his progression through the country’s youth teams.
