COVERCIANO – Michael Kayode, one of the new faces to arrive at Coverciano, has become famous in the Premier League for his long throws, which can cover distances of over 65 meters. A skill that coach Roberto Mancini will also be able to utilize. Born in 2004, The Brentford defender is very attached to the blue shirt, having completed his entire career with the youth national teams: “Nigeria approached me, but for anyone playing for Italy is an honour" – he said in the conference room At Coverciano, where he was reunited with Alberto Bollini, now Mancini's assistant and in charge of the 2023 Under-19 national team, which won the European Championship thanks to Michael's goal in the final against Portugal: "Reuniting with the coach here is fantastic, I owe him so much. The emotion of winning the European Championship is unforgettable, I still look back at the photos and videos today.".
“Before the Chelsea match,” he said, “I didn't know I'd been called up. I found out on the phone, and it was incredibly emotional. There are so many young players here in the national team, and it's good for the team. I want to give my all for the group. Mancini spoke to me and explained the tactical work he wants; there's always something to learn. And having a captain of Donnarumma's caliber is fantastic.” Three other full-backs from three different generations represent Michael's past, present, and future: “I've always looked up to Maldini, while here I have Di Lorenzo, who helps me a lot; he's a source of inspiration.” One of the first to congratulate him on the call-up was Favasuli. He's not just a strong arm, obviously. Kayode can reach a top speed of 33 km/h down the flank. Born in Borgomanero, in the province of Novara, to Nigerian parents, he grew up in the Juventus youth system before returning home at 16 to play in Serie D with Gozzano. Three years ago, he broke into the top flight with Fiorentina, earning minutes in Serie A and Europe. Then, in January 2025, Brentford called him up, launching him as a key player on the Premier League stage: "Everything I experienced in Florence was fantastic. If I'm here, I always have Fiorentina to thank. This opportunity opened up for me, and I think anyone would want to play in the Premier League. I was able to improve on so many things in England, but more than focusing on the difference between Serie A and the Premier League, I think it's crucial for a young player to get playing time and play.".
