After the 3‑0 win over Chelsea, Kayode discovers Italy's call-up

Michael Kayode learned of his first call‑up to Italy's senior national team right at the end of Brentford's 3‑0 victory over Chelsea, which took place on Friday at the Gtech Community Stadium. The defender confirmed that he never thought about leaving the English club this summer, despite Nigeria's interest.

The Azzurri Call‑up

Coach Roberto Mancini included Kayode among the ten potential debutants for the upcoming Nations League matches against Belgium, France and Turkey, which the Azzurri will face at home and away during the break. The 22‑year‑old defender said in a press conference that he discovered the call on his mobile at the final whistle, describing the emotion as “incredible” after such an important win.

“I didn’t know about the call‑up before the match against Chelsea; I found out at the final whistle, on my phone. It was an incredible emotion, especially after such a big win,” Kayode said. He then added that many full‑backs inspire him, but his main role model is Paolo Maldini, calling him “an exception in this sport worldwide.”

The Journey from Juventus to Brentford

Developed at Juventus, Kayode moved to Gozzano in Serie D when the black‑and‑white club decided not to retain him, an experience he described as crucial for his development: “That season in Serie D at 16 gave me the strength to reach these levels.” He then progressed in the Italian youth national team, scoring the decisive goal in the Euro U19 final against Portugal, leading Italy to its first tournament victory.

Italy seeks advantage in the Nations League against Turkey

In January 2025 he arrived at Brentford on a €500,000 loan from Fiorentina, with an option to buy. After 63 appearances, 2 goals and 3 assists, the English club made the transfer permanent for €17.5 million. Kayode emphasized that the chance to play in the Premier League was one of the main reasons for accepting the move.

During the 2023‑24 season, the defender scored for Fiorentina in the 2‑1 win over Lazio on 26 February 2024 at the Artemio Franchi Stadium, celebrating the goal with great pride. “I am very proud of what I experienced in Florence; I owe a lot to Fiorentina, it’s almost the place where I was born,” he recalled.

International and Family Ambitions

Nigeria contacted Kayode for a possible senior call‑up, but the defender considered it “a very easy decision” to stay with Italy, describing the Azzurri as “a great honour.” He also spoke about his private life, revealing that he is the father of a daughter and that he finds in his family a source of daily strength.

Italy puts pressure on Red Devils with nine subs against Turkey

Kayode confirmed that he has already renewed his contract with Brentford and commented on the rumors of a return to Juventus: “It’s nice to hear big clubs talking about me, but I’m happy with how things are going at Brentford.”