Brentford star keen on Italy but leaves door open for Nigeria’s Super Eagles – “It’s a dream”

Brentford defender Michael Kayode has admitted that playing for Italy national football team at senior level remains his dream, Afrik-Foot reports.

The former Fiorentina right-back has, however, also made clear that he is proud of his Nigerian background.

Kayode is one of several young players, including Leicester City’s Caleb Okoli and Atalanta defender Honest Ahanor, who can represent both Italy and Nigeria.

Born in Borgomanero, Italy, to Yoruba parents, Kayode qualifies for both countries at international level. He began his football journey in the youth ranks of Juventus, where he spent seven years before leaving in 2018. He later developed further at Fiorentina before moving to Brentford, initially on loan before the move was made permanent.

Italy currently have the advantage in the race for his international future. The 21-year-old has already represented the country at youth level, playing for Italy’s U18, U19 and U21 teams.

For Nigeria, the right-back position is already well covered, with players such as Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Ryan Alebiosu competing for the role in the Super Eagles squad.

Even so, many Nigerian fans have closely followed Kayode’s progress in the Premier League and would like to see him represent the Super Eagles one day.

Brentford’s Kayode: Italy dream remains top priority

Kayode is believed to be on the radar of both Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso and Nigeria manager Eric Chelle, but the defender is currently focused on achieving his ambition of playing for Italy.

There is a chance he could receive his first senior call-up when Italy face Northern Ireland national football team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification play-offs this month.

Kayode is convinced his main task is to perform consistently for Brentford and allow opportunities to come naturally.

“For every player, it’s a dream to be in the national team, especially now because of the qualifications for the World Cup. I really hope we qualify,” Kayode told The Athletic.

“It’s important to do very well at the club because if you don’t do well at your club, you don’t get a call-up. So I just think about Brentford and if I get the opportunity (with Italy), that’s it.”

Although Italy remains his main target, Kayode also appreciates the encouragement he receives from Nigerian supporters.

“I’m happy that the Nigerian people are happy for me. The opportunity to (be eligible to) play for both is amazing,” Kayode added.

Kayode is pleased with the career he is building, yet he is grateful to his parents, Victoria and Anthony, without whose help he would not have made it this far.

“For them it’s so special,” he says. “They are very proud of me, but I have to say thank you because they took me everywhere, when it was really far. They believe in me — if I’m here, it’s because of that.”

Primarily a right-back, Kayode has shown his versatility in the past. During his time at Fiorentina he also played at left-back and occasionally as a deeper defender. He is also well known for his powerful long throws, which often create attacking chances.

After joining Fiorentina from the lower leagues in 2021, Kayode quickly progressed through the club’s youth system. He helped the team win both the Primavera Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana youth titles.

He made his Serie A debut on 19 August 2023 in Fiorentina’s 4-1 win over Genoa. By the end of that season he had become a regular in the first team and was part of the squad that reached the final of the UEFA Europa Conference League.