Buffon wants Kayode in Italian national team
Legendary Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon believes Brentford defender Michael Kayode has shown enough quality to earn a call-up to the Italian national team, Soccernet.ng reports. Kayode has been one of
Legendary Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon believes Brentford defender Michael Kayode has shown enough quality to earn a call-up to the Italian national team, Soccernet.ng reports.
Kayode has been one of the most impressive young players in the Premier League this season. The 21-year-old right-back has attracted attention not only for his energetic runs down the flank for Brentford, but also for his powerful long throw-ins, which have caused serious problems for opponents.
The former ACF Fiorentina defender has played 28 league matches this season and has become an important part of a Brentford side currently sitting seventh in the table and pushing for a place in European competition.
His performances have naturally caught the eye internationally because the defender is eligible to represent two countries.
Kayode was born in Italy to Nigerian parents, meaning he can choose between the former world champions and Nigeria's Super Eagles.
Italy currently appear to have the advantage because Kayode has already represented them at youth level. In fact, he made a piece of Italian football history when he scored the winning goal that secured the 2023 UEFA European Under 19 Championship title for the Azzurri.
Read Also: AFCON 2025: CBN handling direct payment of Super Eagles’ allowances-NFF
Italy are preparing for a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff against Northern Ireland, and Buffon believes Kayode could be one of the fresh faces invited into the squad.
“A big surprise has been Palestra; he’s shown something extraordinary,” Buffon said as per Football-Italia. “Another one who’s doing well is Kayode. Vergara, too, definitely catches your attention.”
Buffon’s comments carry weight because he now works as head of delegation for the Italian national team and works closely with coach Gennaro Gattuso.
“If there’s something he [Gattuso] doesn’t lack, it’s courage,” Buffon added.
“Regardless of age, the national team is for those who deserve it. Of course, you need a certain core group; you get nowhere without one.”
