Brentford defender Michael Kayode has revealed that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) contacted him about changing his international allegiance, but says he never seriously considered leaving Italy.
Kayode, 22, was born in Borgomanero, Italy, to Nigerian parents and is eligible to represent either country at senior level. However, after progressing through Italy’s youth sides, he has chosen to remain committed to the national team he has represented throughout his career.
The right-back recently received his first senior call-up for Italy and has been a regular at youth level. He was part of the Italy side that won the 2023 UEFA European Under-19 Championship, scoring the winning goal in the final against Portugal.
“Nigeria approached me, but I never thought about changing national teams,” Kayode told Football Italia.
“It was a very easy decision. I went through all the youth teams here.
“I think Italy have always been a great national team, and playing here is an honour.”
Kayode’s decision means he will continue to pursue his international career with Italy despite the approach from the NFF.