Nigeria: Buffon urges Italy boss Gattuso to call-up Kayode before Super Eagles strike

Legendary Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon believes Brentford defender Michael Kayode has shown enough quality to earn a call-up to the Italian national team, Soccernet.ng reports.

Kayode has been one of the most impressive young players in the Premier League this season. The 21-year-old right-back has attracted attention not only for his energetic runs down the flank for Brentford, but also for his powerful long throw-ins, which have caused serious problems for opponents.

The former ACF Fiorentina defender has played 28 league matches this season and has become an important part of a Brentford side currently sitting seventh in the table and pushing for a place in European competition.

His performances have naturally caught the eye internationally because the defender is eligible to represent two countries.

Kayode was born in Italy to Nigerian parents, meaning he can choose between the former world champions and Nigeria's Super Eagles.

Italy currently appear to have the advantage because Kayode has already represented them at youth level. In fact, he made a piece of Italian football history when he scored the winning goal that secured the 2023 UEFA European Under‑19 Championship title for the Azzurri.

Italy are preparing for a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff against Northern Ireland, and Buffon believes Kayode could be one of the fresh faces invited into the squad.

“A big surprise has been Palestra; he’s shown something extraordinary,” Buffon said as per Football-Italia. “Another one who’s doing well is Kayode. Vergara, too, definitely catches your attention.”

Buffon’s comments carry weight because he now works as head of delegation for the Italian national team and works closely with coach Gennaro Gattuso.

“If there’s something he [Gattuso] 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

While Italy may currently be ahead, Kayode is also being watched by Eric Chelle, the coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

The young defender has admitted that representing Italy remains his main dream, but he also appreciates the chance to play 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 (be eligible to) play for both is amazing.”

For now, the race between the two nations continues, although Nigeria’s Super Eagles are already out of the qualification race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.