Michael Kayode Discovers Italy Call-Up Post-Chelsea Victory, Reaffirms Nigeria Interest

Michael Kayode learned of his first senior Italy call-up immediately after Brentford's 3-0 triumph over Chelsea on Friday. He stated his firm decision to remain with the English club this summer, despite Nigeria having approached him regarding a senior national team call-up.

Kayode is one of ten potential debutants selected by Roberto Mancini for the upcoming Nations League fixtures against Belgium, France, and Turkey. Italy will face these opponents both home and away during the international break.

“I had no idea about the Italy call-up before the match; I found out as the final whistle blew, checking my phone. The emotion was immense, especially following such a significant victory,” Kayode stated at a press conference. He cited Paolo Maldini as a primary inspiration, emphasizing his admiration for Maldini's defensive prowess.

The Brentford defender, previously a Euro U19 champion with Italy where he scored the decisive goal in the final against Portugal, has committed his international future to Italy. "It was a straightforward choice. I progressed through all the youth levels here. Nigeria approached me, but I never entertained switching national teams," he explained. "Italy has consistently been a formidable national team, and representing them is an honor."

Kayode, formerly of Fiorentina, has amassed 63 appearances for Brentford, contributing two goals and three assists. He joined Brentford initially on loan from Fiorentina in January 2025, with the club making his transfer permanent for €17.5 million later that season.

"I evaluated the opportunities available. I believe most players aspire to play in the Premier League, so I seized that chance," Kayode remarked. He expressed gratitude for his time at Fiorentina, viewing it as a formative period. "Being here now, with everyone together, means a great deal. We come from diverse leagues, and this unity benefits the group."

His long throw-ins have also garnered attention in England. "One morning, I simply discovered I could perform long throw-ins," he shared with a smile. "I didn't employ it much at Fiorentina, but at Brentford, I found a coach specializing in this area, so we practice it during training, and it’s more frequently used in England."

Originally from the Juventus academy, Kayode moved to Gozzano in Serie D after Juventus opted not to keep him. "Transitioning from a professional club like Juventus to Gozzano was a stark contrast, but that experience forged the resilience needed to reach these heights and compete," he said. "That Serie D season at 16 was invaluable. My advice to younger players is not to lose hope and not to fear dropping a level for playing time and development." He credits Antonio Soda for the opportunities he received and his family for their unwavering support.

At 22, Kayode is also a father. "There's no greater joy. I miss my partner and daughter greatly, but I view it as a source of strength. I have a family to fight for," he stated. The idea for the throw-in celebration at Brentford originated from a collaborative effort to thank the stadium for its availability.

Despite reports linking him to Juventus the previous summer, Kayode is content with his progression at Brentford. "It's rewarding to be discussed, especially by major clubs," he acknowledged. "I had already agreed to extend my contract with Brentford and was committed to staying and continuing my development, so my focus was elsewhere." He harbors no regrets about leaving Juventus earlier, seeing it as a catalyst for his current position.

Kayode reunites with Alberto Bollini, Mancini's assistant and his former Italy U19 manager. "I owe Alberto a great deal. Winning the European Championship was unforgettable," he said. "I still look at photos and videos from that time. He asked me to play as an advanced winger in that final, and I scored the winning goal. Seeing him again here was significant." He also mentioned conversations with Di Lorenzo, even when playing against him at Fiorentina, discussing tactical aspects. "The manager works with young players, so being here and giving my best for the team is beneficial for me."

During training, Mancini was observed providing Kayode with tactical guidance. "It was crucial. By communicating and engaging in tactical work during training, I immediately grasped the manager's intentions," Kayode explained. "The fact that he approached me directly meant a lot." He views the current situation as a new beginning for the national team, focusing on hard work and performance in the upcoming matches.

Regarding the differences between Serie A and the Premier League, Kayode noted, "Serie A places more emphasis on tactics, while the Premier League is more about transitions. There's more running, and everything is faster, but both leagues have been vital for my growth."

Kayode represents the evolving multicultural nature of the Italy national team. "Nowadays, we live in a world where people from various backgrounds come together, both in Europe and globally. I believe Italy is prepared for this too," he commented.

He also spoke about messages from former Fiorentina teammates and encounters with Italian players in London. "Many former teammates have reached out. Favasuli, who is doing well at Napoli, is one I've stayed in contact with. In London, it's often possible to meet up when free, particularly with players like Bove and Calafiori. It's more challenging to connect with players based further away, like Donnarumma in Manchester."