by Stephen Simon
Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle is unlikely to lose sleep over Michael Kayode’s decision to commit his international future to Italy, Soccernet.ng reports.
This is because Nigeria already possess experience, balance and emerging talent at right-back.
Kayode recently ended speculation about a possible switch to Nigeria by making it clear that Italy remains his priority. Born in Borgomanero to Nigerian parents, the defender came through the Italian football system, spent years in the Juventus academy and represented the Azzurri at several youth levels.
He also scored the winning goal when Italy defeated Portugal to win the 2023 UEFA European Under-19 Championship.
Nigeria had monitored the defender closely after his impressive rise at Brentford, where his pace, attacking runs and dangerous long throws made him one of the Premier League’s standout young full-backs during the 2025-26 season.
The Nigeria Football Federation hoped he could become part of the country’s next defensive generation, especially after rumours surfaced online when Kayode briefly followed the Super Eagles’ official Instagram page.
However, the reality was always difficult for Nigeria. Kayode had already built deep connections within Italy’s football structure and remained firmly inside the country’s long-term national team plans. Reports in Italy suggest interim coach Silvio Baldini could include the 21-year-old Brentford ace in upcoming friendlies against Luxembourg and Greece.
Even without Kayode’s quality, Nigeria are still well protected on the right side of defence because of the strong presence of Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Aina, now 29, remains one of the Super Eagles’ most dependable players after another strong Premier League campaign with Nottingham Forest. Comfortable on both flanks, calm in possession and tactically intelligent, he continues to provide leadership and flexibility for Chelle’s side.
