Michael Kayode earns first Italy call-up after Brentford breakthrough
Brentford full-back Michael Kayode has received his first senior Italy call-up and could make his Azzurri debut on Friday at the Stadio Olimpico, with Nations League matches against Belgium and Turkey ahead.
Why Kayode’s selection matters
The 22-year-old learned of his inclusion in Roberto Mancini’s squad after Brentford’s win over Chelsea, a landmark moment in a season that has established him as a regular Premier League starter following his move from Fiorentina.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Michael Kayode |
| Age | 22 |
| Club | Brentford |
| International team | Italy |
| Upcoming opponents | Belgium and Turkey |
| Possible debut venue | Stadio Olimpico |
Born in Borgomanero to Nigerian parents, Kayode has represented Italy throughout the youth system and said a senior call-up had always been his principal international target. Nigeria had also made efforts in recent months to persuade the defender to commit to them.
“Nigeria did approach me, that is true,” Kayode said. “But I grew up with Italy’s youth teams and have always regarded being part of this national side as an honour. For any player, representing Italy is an honour.”
His arrival comes as Mancini looks to shape a new Italy cycle after the national side’s recent failures to reach major tournaments. Kayode has spoken proudly of joining a changing, multi-ethnic group, while the head coach is weighing a rotation between the Brentford player and Giovanni Di Lorenzo in the coming games.
Kayode’s long throw-ins could also give Italy an additional set-piece option, alongside the defensive qualities that have made him a consistent selection in west London.
Brentford stay remains central to his progress
At Coverciano, Kayode addressed interest from Inter Milan during the summer. The Italian champions explored the prospect of bringing him back to Serie A, but he decided that continuity at Brentford offered the clearest route to regular football and further development.
“It is nice to hear of that interest, but I wanted to remain where I was,” he said. “This is the right environment for me to keep improving. Extending my Brentford contract was always what I had in mind.”
Kayode urged younger players to value minutes on the pitch over the attraction of a larger-name transfer, and credited the Premier League’s demands with accelerating his development. His immediate objective is now to turn a first call-up into a lasting place in Mancini’s plans while retaining his role at Brentford.
