Michael Kayode’s Italy debut only the start, says Brentford defender’s agent

Brentford full-back Michael Kayode has made an immediate impression with Italy, but his agent believes the 22-year-old still has considerable room to develop.

Kayode was called into Italy’s squad for the first round of UEFA Nations League fixtures and, after being left out of the opening match against Belgium, was handed his first start in the following game against Turkiye. He marked the occasion with a goal.

The Brentford defender retained his place for Friday’s 1-1 draw with France and is expected to feature again in Italy’s final match of the international window, against Turkiye.

Kayode has established himself as an important player for Brentford in the Premier League since joining from Fiorentina in 2025. His breakthrough with Italy has provided further evidence that he can operate at the highest level.

Giuseppe Pesce, Kayode’s agent, was in Bursa to watch his client make his international debut and said the moment the goal was scored was particularly emotional.

“It’s a source of pride to see Michael at this level. I was in Bursa on Monday for his debut, and when the goal went in, I felt a very strong emotion,” Pesce said.

“Consider that I even had to hold back my celebration, because we Italians were surrounded by police. So I stayed composed, even if inside I was exploding. It was an incredible debut, worthy of a film plot.”

Pesce said starting for Italy should be viewed as the beginning of Kayode’s progress rather than the peak of his career.

“The best comes now. Having got to the point of starting for the national team is only a point of departure to keep doing better. Michael still has big margins for improvement,” he said.

The agent also praised the defender’s character, highlighting his composure and positive approach during a difficult period at Fiorentina.

“He surprised me with the incredible humility that sets him apart and with knowing how to face every situation with a smile,” Pesce said.

“Even when things weren’t going the best way in his last months in Florence, Michael never got down and carried straight on his own path.”

Kayode’s move to the Premier League eventually vindicated that determination, although Pesce said the transfer came at a challenging stage of the player’s career, when his opportunities in Florence were limited.

“The facts proved him right with the move to the Premier League, strongly wanted by everyone and arriving at a difficult moment when he was playing little,” he added.