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Italy great Gianluigi Buffon has suggested that Brentford defender Michael Kayode deserves a chance with the senior national team, praising the young full-back’s rapid development in the Premier League, Footynaija reports.
Kayode, 21, has enjoyed an impressive campaign in England, becoming a regular figure for Brentford during a season in which the club are challenging for European qualification. The energetic right-back has featured in 28 league matches and has stood out for his attacking runs and powerful long throw-ins, which have repeatedly unsettled opposition defences.
The former Fiorentina player is eligible to represent both Italy and Nigeria, a situation that has created growing interest from both nations. Kayode was born in Italy to Nigerian parents and has already worn Italy colours at youth level. He famously scored the decisive goal that helped Italy win the 2023 UEFA European Under-19 Championship.
Buon appetito 😋
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) February 19, 2026
🇮🇹 Michael Kayode bringing a taste of Italy to Jersey Road for our latest themed lunch (and yes there was spaghetti 😂) pic.twitter.com/oGmC0lotBv
With Italy preparing for a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff against Northern Ireland, Buffon believes Kayode could be ready for senior international football.
“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.”
The former goalkeeper, who now works closely with national team coach Gennaro Gattuso, added: “If there’s something he [Gattuso] doesn’t lack, it’s courage.
“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. You have to know how to use young players without burdening them with responsibilities. You must take fearlessness from young players.”
Nigeria’s national team are also monitoring the situation. Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has reportedly kept track of the defender, though Kayode admits his immediate focus remains on club form.
Kayode ➡️ van den Berg ➡️ Lewis-Potter ➡️ Goal
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) February 13, 2026
Our leveller against Arsenal 🫡 pic.twitter.com/OoYZz9mRql
“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.
“I’m happy that the Nigerian people are happy for me. The opportunity to (be eligible to) play for both is amazing.”
For now, the defender remains eligible for both countries, meaning the contest between Italy and Nigeria for his international future is still open.
Thanks for addressing this topic—it’s so important.