Michael Kayode Reveals Nigerian Football Federation Approach Him Before Choosing Italy

Brentford defender Michael Kayode has revealed that the Nigerian Football Federation approached him before he decided to commit his international future to Italy.

The 22-year-old was recently named in Roberto Mancini’s Italy squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures, having progressed through the Azzurri’s youth setup.

Kayode said Nigeria had made efforts to convince him to switch allegiance in recent months, but he remained clear about his desire to represent Italy at senior level.

The defender has featured for Italy at several youth levels and said earning a place in the senior national team had always been one of his biggest ambitions.

"Nigeria approached me, that's true," Kayode explained. "But I came through the Italian youth ranks, and I've always considered it an honour to be part of this national team. For anyone, playing for Italy is an honour."