Legendary Italian goalkeeper, Gianluigi Buffon, is calling on the Italian national team to swiftly secure the international future of rising star Michael Kayode before the defender commits to the Nigerian national team.
The 21-year-old right-back, currently plying his trade in the English Premier League with Brentford, has been turning heads with his impressive performances in the 2025–26 campaign.
Having racked up 28 appearances this season, Kayode’s energetic displays, physical presence, and signature long throw-ins have caught widespread attention.
Born in Borgomanero, Italy, to Nigerian parents, Kayode holds dual eligibility and can represent either the Azzurri or the Super Eagles at the senior level. While he has previously donned the Italian jersey at the U-18, U-19, and U-21 youth levels, he is yet to earn a senior call-up.
With the crucial March international window looming, and Italy fighting to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup through the European play-offs, Buffon believes it is time for Italy to act.
“Another one who’s doing well is Kayode,” Buffon said, according to Football Italia.
The 2006 World Cup-winning goalkeeper also expressed his confidence in current Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso’s willingness to give emerging talents a chance.
“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,” Buffon stated. “
For his part, Kayode has acknowledged the privilege of being courted by two footballing nations, though he insists his primary focus is on his club duties with 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. 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 told The Athletic.
Speaking on his Nigerian roots, he added, “I’m happy that the Nigerian people are happy for me. The opportunity to play for both is amazing.”
