'Not easy' - Brentford's Nigeria-eligible RB Kayode speaks passionately about representing Italy

Brentford right back Michael Kayode has described scoring for Italy in the final of the 2023 UEFA U19 European Championship as the best moment of his life.

Nineteen minutes into the contest against Portugal, the versatile fullback of Nigerian descent met Luis Hasa's delivery with a decisive header to score the match-winner.

Born in northern Italy to Nigerian parents, Kayode grew up in Borgomanero and started his football education with Serie A powerhouse Juventus.

The Italian-Nigerian fullback joined Brentford from Fiorentina in the winter transfer market, with the Bees holding the option to make the deal permanent at the end of the season.

Kayode was delighted to score in the showpiece and spoke emotionally about the pride of representing Italy on the big stage.

Reflecting on the moment, he told Brentford's official webpage: "It was the best experience of my life.

"I remember everything. When my team-mate crossed the ball, I headed it and I didn’t see where the ball was going. When I stood up, the ball was in and we could celebrate.

"It’s a fantastic feeling because you feel like the whole country is behind you."

The 20-year-old acknowledged the pressure of international duty but embraced the challenge.

While he cherishes his U19 experience, Kayode—now an Italy U21 international—dreams of winning the European Championship or World Cup with the senior national team.

"It’s not easy to carry the expectation of the whole country on your shoulders but you know that you are representing the country which makes it easier.

"It’s a great honour, but it’s not easy, especially for a country like Italy.

"I cannot even imagine what it would mean to win something with the senior national team. It’s something I’m hoping and aiming for."

By featuring in an U19 Euro qualifier against Bosnia in September 2022, Kayode became provisionally cap-tied to his country of birth, Italy.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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