• Super Admin
• 08 Mar, 2026

Italian football legend Gianluigi Buffon has urged national team head coach Gennaro Gattuso to secure Michael Kayode for the Italy national football team before Nigeria convinces the highly rated defender to switch allegiance. Michael Kayode has emerged as one of the most impressive young players in the Premier League this season. The 21-year-old right-back has impressed with his energetic runs, physical presence and dangerous long throw-ins while playing for Brentford FC. Read Also: Michael Kayode: From Juventus Academy to Brentford star The former ACF Fiorentina defender has made 28 league appearances and become a key figure for a Brentford side currently sitting seventh in the table and pushing for European qualification. Buffon backs Kayode for Italy call-up Michael Kayode, who was born in Borgomanero in Italy's Novara province to Nigerian parents, is eligible to represent both Italy and Nigeria. He has previously played for Italy at U-18, U-19 and U-21 levels but is yet to receive a senior call-up for the Azzurri. With the March international window approaching, Buffon believes Italy should act quickly to secure the defender's international future. "Another one who's doing well is Kayode," Buffon said, according to Football Italia. The former goalkeeper, who won the 2006 FIFA World Cup with Italy, believes Gattuso dares to make bold decisions when selecting 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. You must know how to use young players without burdening them with responsibilities." Michael Kayode has enjoyed a standout campaign with Brentford, with his athleticism, long throw-ins and versatility as a right-back or wing-back attracting attention across Europe. Despite growing interest from both Italy and Nigeria, the defender says his immediate focus remains on club football. "For every player, it's a dream to be in the national team," he told The Athletic. "But it's important to do well at your club first because that's how you earn a call-up." Italy are preparing for a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff against the Northern Ireland national football team, and Buffon believes Kayode could be one of the fresh faces considered for the squad. Source: https://businessday.ng/sports/article/buffon-urges-italy-to-call-up-brentfords-michael-kayode-before-nigeria/