Brentford defender Michael Kayode has been called up to the Italian national team and the 23 year old is expected to make his Azzuri debut after impressing in the Premier League. Following his international call-up, Kayode spoke about his recent transfer rumours.
Kayode is one of nine players called up for international duty by Roberto Mancini for the first time in their careers. Bologna goalkeeper Massimo Pessina, Roma's Daniele Ghilardi, Monza's Eddy Kouadio, midfield duo Alessandro Romano of Cagliari and Issa Doumbia of Sporting also make the squad.
Mancini has also handed a first opportunity to Sassuolo forward Sebastiano Esposito, Napoli's Antonio Vergara and Nuremberg's Mohamed Ali Zoma.
Michael Kayode - Juventus Rejection to Brentford Superstardom
After being discarded from Juventus, Fiorentina signed Kayode during his youth days. However, after just 50 games in Florence, he made the move to the Premier League with Brentford.
Since his move to London he has taken the English top-flight by storm and impressed fans across the country. With his performances seemingly improving week upon week, his decision to leave Italy for England has worked out.
Kayode has spoken about the difference between the Serie A and Premier League (via Gazetta dello Sport):
"In Italy football is more tactical, in England the ball goes faster and teams focus a lot on verticality. Just think that here there is a coach who takes care of refining the throw-ins, which are particularly long for me: I can't say why but one day I woke up and realized that he could be a talent to use. For my part, I can say that I am learning a lot".
Kayode has started this season well, netting against Tottenham Hotspur, winning 45% of his ground duels and regaining possession six times a game. His form has been noticed by Italian manager Mancini.
No regrets since rejecting Inter Milan
Inter Milan were in for 22 year old Michael Kayode in the summer after Real Madrid signed Denzel Dumfries in the summer. When Inter came calling Kayode made a decision he doesn't regret:
"It's nice to hear about certain interests but my idea was to stay where I was. It's the right place where I can improve, no regrets. Inter? I heard about the interest but my idea was to stay where I was".
Kayode decided to remain at Brentford in order to continue his development and ultimately "Young people have to play" and the Serie A currently have an issue with developing young talent.
International debut only days away
Mancini has called up Kayode for his first national team since returning to the Italian national team setup. Kayode told media about the day he was called up:
"I learned of the call-up immediately after the victory against Chelsea, in which I had also scored. It was the perfect day, which repays me for so much work. However, I have never had any doubts about the choice".
Kayode is the son of Nigerian parents and despite the Nigerian FA's best efforts to convince the right back to switch allegiances, the Brentford full back remained with the Italian national team and has been rewarded as such, "It's true. But I did all the work in the Italian youth team, I have always considered it an honor to be part of this national team. And now here I am".
