Brentford defender Michael Kayode reveals Nigeria approach before Italy switch

Brentford defender Michael Kayode has revealed that the Nigeria Football Federation made an approach to convince him to switch his international allegiance before he decided to continue pursuing his senior career with Italy.

The 22-year-old has progressed through the Italian national team setup at youth level and has now taken another significant step in his international career after being named in Roberto Mancini’s Italy squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.

Kayode’s decision comes after Nigeria reportedly made efforts to persuade the defender to represent the Super Eagles at senior level.

Despite the approach from the Nigerian federation, the Brentford defender said he remained committed to Italy, where he has spent much of his football development and represented the country across several youth categories.

The right-back explained that his connection with the Italian national team goes back several years and that playing for the Azzurri has always been one of his major ambitions.

“Nigeria approached me, that’s true,” Kayode said.

“But I came through the Italian youth ranks, and I’ve always considered it an honour to be part of this national team. For anyone, playing for Italy is an honour.”

Kayode’s comments underline the importance of his experience within the Italian youth system in shaping his international decision.

The defender has represented Italy at various youth levels, giving him a strong connection with the country’s football structure and allowing him to develop within the Azzurri setup.

His progression has now culminated in a senior call-up, bringing him closer to achieving his long-standing ambition of representing Italy at the highest level.

For Nigeria, Kayode’s decision represents the loss of another player who could have strengthened the Super Eagles’ defensive options.

The Nigerian federation has increasingly sought to identify players with Nigerian eligibility who are developing in European football, but Kayode has opted to remain with Italy after receiving the opportunity to advance into the senior setup.

The Brentford defender will now focus on establishing himself among Italy’s senior internationals and making the most of his opportunity under Mancini.

Having already experienced international football at youth level, Kayode will be hoping that his latest call-up marks the beginning of a long-term senior career with the Azzurri.

His decision also brings an end, at least for now, to speculation over a possible switch to Nigeria, with the defender making it clear that his international priority remains Italy.