Legendary Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon believes Michael Kayode has shown enough quality to earn a call-up to the Italy national football team, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Kayode has emerged as one of the most impressive young defenders in the Premier League this season with Brentford FC.
The 21-year-old right-back has drawn attention for his energetic runs down the flank as well as his powerful long throw-ins, which have repeatedly caused problems for opposing defences.
The former ACF Fiorentina defender has made 28 league appearances this season and has become a key part of a Brentford side currently sitting seventh in the table and pushing for European qualification.
Kayode, who was born in Italy to Nigerian parents, remains eligible to represent either the Nigerian national football team or Italy at the senior level. However, the European nation may currently have the advantage as the defender has already represented them at the youth level.
He notably made Italian football history by scoring the winning goal that secured the 2023 UEFA European Under?19 Championship title for the Azzurri.
“A big surprise has been Palestra; he’s shown something extraordinary,” Buffon said, according to Football-Italia. “Another one who’s doing well is Kayode. Vergara, too, definitely catches your attention.”
Buffon’s opinion carries weight as he now works as head of delegation for the Italian national team and collaborates closely with head coach Gennaro Gattuso.
“If there’s something he 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. You have to know how to use young players without burdening them with responsibilities. You must take fearlessness from young players.”
Kayode Keeps Door Open for Nigeria
Despite Italy appearing to be ahead in the race, Kayode is also on the radar of Eric Chelle, the coach of the Super Eagles.
The young defender has admitted that representing Italy remains his primary dream, but he appreciates the possibility of playing for Nigeria in the future.
“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 play for both is amazing.”
For now, the battle between both nations for Kayode’s international future remains open.