Uncapped Brentford defender Michael Kayode prioritises Italy over Nigeria

Michael Kayode has made his international intentions clear, opting to commit his future to Italy national football team despite being eligible to represent Nigeria national football team at senior level.

The 21-year-old Brentford FC defender, who remains uncapped at senior international level, has expressed a firm desire to earn a call-up from Italy, underlining a long-standing emotional connection to the Azzurri setup.

Born in Borgomanero to Nigerian parents, Kayode qualifies for both nations but has consistently featured within Italy’s youth ranks, shaping his allegiance early in his career.

“I will always give priority to Italy: even at youth level, I grew up wearing the Azzurri shirt,” Kayode told Tuttosport.

His stance effectively rules out any immediate switch to Nigeria, who could have sought to bolster their defensive options with the highly rated full-back. Instead, Kayode is prepared to remain patient as he awaits an opportunity with Italy’s senior squad, viewing it as the natural progression of his international journey.

“I hope to achieve this dream as soon as possible, but I have no doubt about which path to choose.”

Kayode’s rise through the Italian system has been steady and impactful. Since making his debut for the Italy national under-21 football team in 2023, he has accumulated ten appearances, further strengthening his case for senior recognition.

His standout moment at youth level came during the UEFA European Under-19 Championship, where he scored the decisive goal against Portugal national football team to secure Italy’s first title in the competition.

That performance not only elevated his profile but also positioned him among Italy’s most promising defensive prospects. His development has not gone unnoticed within the national setup.

Kayode revealed he had contact with former Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso ahead of the World Cup play-offs earlier this year, although he ultimately missed out on selection.

“Yes, we also had dinner with other [Italian] Premier League players,” Kayode admitted.

“I was doing well, I felt involved even without being called up for the play-offs.”

With Silvio Baldini now set to oversee upcoming senior international friendlies, Kayode is expected to remain within the broader selection frame. The fixtures against Luxembourg national football team and Greece national football team could present a potential opening for the defender to finally make his long-awaited senior debut.

For now, however, the Brentford full-back insists his immediate focus lies at club level as he continues to establish himself in English football.

“For now, I’m only focused on qualifying for Europe with Brentford,” he concluded.

“We can aim to qualify for the cup until the end, so we don’t want to let our guard down. The Azzurri shirt would be an enormous achievement, unthinkable until a few years ago, but I’ll think about it in a few weeks.”