Michael Kayode

Born in Italy, Kayode is of Nigerian descent. == Club career ==

Gozzano The son of Yoruba parents, Kayode started his youth career at Juventus, where he remained for seven years until 2018. He played the 2020–21 season with Serie D club Gozzano, with which he scored two goals and two assists in 34 matches, and gained promotion to Serie C. By the end of the season, Kayode had become a regular in Fiorentina's first team with his performances reportedly attracting international attention from clubs around Europe, featuring heavily in Serie A and in the squad that reached the final of the UEFA Conference League. Brentford On 24 January 2025, Brentford announced that they had signed Kayode on loan for the remainder of the 2024–25 season, with an option to make the deal permanent. Brentford signed Kayode permanently in May 2025, in a deal lasting until 2030. == International career ==

In July 2023, Kayode's 19th minute goal decided the final of the 2023 UEFA European Under-19 Championship, which Italy won 1–0 to Portugal. On 17 October 2023 he made his debut with the Italy U21, in the qualifying match won 2–0 against Norway in Bolzano. == Style of play ==

Predominantly a right-back, at Fiorentina Kayode also played as a left-back or in a double pivot as a third centre-back. He has been noted for his long throws, frequently creating chances from throw-ins. ==Career statistics==

Fiorentina U19 • Supercoppa Primavera: 2021–22, 2023–24 • Coppa Italia Primavera: 2021–22 Fiorentina • UEFA Europa Conference League runner-up: 2023–24 Individual • Best Italian Player Under 21: 2024 == References ==