Brentford defender Michael Kayode has lifted the lid on his decision to snub Nigeria to represent Italy at international level.

Born to Yoruba parents in Borgomanero, Italy, Kayode was eligible to represent both Nigeria and Italy.

The 22-year-old, however, opted for the latter, earning his first call-up to the Azzurri under head coach Roberto Mancini for the 2026–27 UEFA Nations League matches against Belgium, Turkey and France between September 25 and October 5.

Prior to his maiden call-up to the Italian national team, Kayode had represented Italy at various youth levels.

Notably, he scored the winning goal for Italy in the 2023 UEFA European Under-19 Championship final against Portugal.

Speaking ahead of his first senior appearance for Italy, the long-throw specialist revealed that he was approached by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF); however, it was an easy decision to choose Italy.

“It was a very easy decision. I went through all the youth teams here. Nigeria approached me, but I never thought about changing national teams,” Kayode said, as quoted by Football Italia.