‘It’s incredible here’ – English-Nigerian Michael Kayode relishing life at Brentford

Italian defender Michael Kayode says settling into life at Brentford F.C. has been far easier than he expected, with the young full-back admitting he already feels deeply connected to the club and its supporters.

The 21-year-old joined the Bees from ACF Fiorentina just over a year ago and has quickly embraced both the footballing environment and the passionate backing of the Brentford faithful.

Despite being relatively new to English football, Kayode believes the welcoming atmosphere around the club made his transition seamless.

“It’s incredible. The fans are crazy at every game,” the 21-year-old told The Athletic.

Kayode pointed to the club’s travelling support as one of the things that has impressed him the most since arriving in west London. Even during fixtures far from home, he noted that Brentford fans consistently turn up in large numbers to support the team.

“They always follow us on every away game. At Macclesfield (in the FA Cup fourth round) there were so many fans. I didn’t expect it because it was far away (on a Monday night).

“So I say ‘thank you’ to them.”

The Italy Under-21 international suggested that the strong connection between players and supporters is one of the defining features of Brentford’s culture. For Kayode, that bond has helped him feel immediately settled within the squad and the wider club environment.

“Brentford is a special team. The first time I arrived, I felt like I’d been there for three or four years.

“I love this club and for me everything is very easy here.”