Buffon Urges Italy to Call Up Kayode as Brentford defender weighs international future between Italy and Nigeria

Former Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has urged the Italy national football team to consider calling up Michael Kayode before the defender commits his international future to Nigeria national football team.

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Buffon made the appeal as Kayode continues to impress with Brentford F.C. in the Premier League during the 2025–26 season.

The 21-year-old defender has made 28 appearances for Brentford this campaign, delivering energetic performances at right-back and right wing-back.

Michael Kayode’s pace, physical strength and trademark long throw-ins have drawn increasing attention from observers across the league.

Born in Borgomanero in Italy’s Novara province to Nigerian parents, Kayode is eligible to represent either Italy or Nigeria at senior international level.

The defender has previously featured for Italy’s youth sides, representing the country at the U-18, U-19 and U-21 levels, but has yet to earn a senior national team call-up.

With the March international window approaching and Italy seeking qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup through European play-offs, Buffon believes the national team should act quickly.

“Another one who’s doing well is Kayode,” Buffon said, according to Football Italia.

The legendary goalkeeper, who was part of Italy’s triumph at the 2006 FIFA World Cup, also expressed confidence in current Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso to give opportunities to emerging players.

“If there’s something he doesn’t lack, it’s courage,” Buffon said.

“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 has acknowledged the possibility of representing either country but said his immediate focus remains on performing well for Brentford.

“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.

Michael Kayode added that strong performances at club level remain essential for any international opportunity.

“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,” Kayode said.

The defender also acknowledged the support he has received from Nigerian fans as speculation over his international future continues.

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“I’m happy that the Nigerian people are happy for me. The opportunity to play for both is amazing,” he added.