Latest News
Brentford defender Michael Kayode tied to Italy after Nations League debut

Brentford defender Michael Kayode is no longer eligible to represent Nigeria after making a competitive senior appearance for Italy on Monday, September 28, allnigeriasoccer.com reports.
The 22-year-old was born in Borgomanero, Italy, and had previously been eligible to play for Nigeria because both of his parents are Nigerian. However, attempts by the Nigeria Football Federation to persuade him to switch allegiance were unsuccessful, with Kayode choosing to represent his country of birth.
Kayode started for Italy in their UEFA Nations League match against Turkiye at the Ataturk Spor Kompleksi Matlı Stadium. Wearing the number 2 shirt, he helped Roberto Mancini’s side to a 4-1 victory.
He marked his senior debut by scoring after 27 minutes, becoming the first Italian defender to score on an international debut since Gian Marco Ferrari achieved the feat in May 2021.
The Brentford right-back had previously represented Italy at Under-18, Under-19 and Under-21 level. His appearance against Turkiye was his first competitive match for the four-time world champions.
Under Fifa eligibility regulations, Kayode cannot change his sporting nationality because he was already 22 when he made his competitive senior debut. That means the defender can no longer switch from Italy to Nigeria.
Another Premier League defender, Honest Ahanor, was not selected for Italy’s match against Turkiye and remains eligible to represent Nigeria. However, that option would be closed if the two-cap international is given playing time in Italy’s forthcoming fixtures against France and Turkiye.
Photo credit: figc.it
