Michael Kayode, the Italian U21 international, has expressed his appreciation for Juventus’ reported interest but reiterated his current happiness and lack of desire to leave Brentford. He described his experience at the Premier League club as feeling “like a family.”
Despite being a target for his former Serie A club, the young right-back, who previously played for Fiorentina, is currently in his second season with Brentford and has become the Italian player with the most Premier League appearances this season.
“I am aware of it, and it is an honor,” Kayode told Tuttosport. “This is a fantastic environment where I feel very comfortable. Brentford has an excellent project. I consider myself fortunate to have found this club, which we aim to lead to European competition in the remaining two league matches.”
Kayode Focused on Brentford Amidst Serie A Speculation
“The Premier League is the ‘Disneyland’ of world football. Everything is perfect, and I am extremely happy here. There isn’t a more competitive league in terms of structure, quality of play, and players,” he added.
When asked about the most formidable opponents he has faced, Kayode highlighted Manchester City’s Doku for his impressive technique and speed, as well as Haaland, a prolific goalscorer, and Bruno Fernandes for his exceptional ball control.
Kayode’s formative years included time at the Juventus Academy, though he was not retained by the Bianconeri, leading him to Gozzano and then Fiorentina. “I have no regrets about that period, even though they [Juventus] rejected me,” he stated. “They saw something in me, and I cherished every year in Vinovo. Being let go was a blow, but I always bounced back. I learned a great deal there until I was 14.”
Now, with Juventus reportedly showing interest in the 21-year-old, Kayode remains committed to his current club. “Honestly, I am not contemplating a return to Italy. My sole focus is on performing well, improving at Brentford, and continuing my development with this club,” he admitted. “Naturally, it’s always gratifying to receive attention from Juventus and any other top club, but my concentration is entirely on the remainder of the season.”
“I am happy here. I’ve found a sense of family at Brentford. We have a young squad, and the atmosphere is splendid. I feel at home with the staff and everyone at the training ground. It was easy for me to settle in, despite my initial reservations. I feel as though I’ve been here for a decade.”
Kayode made his Serie A debut under Vincenzo Italiano during the opening round of the 2023-24 season. “I am grateful to Italiano for giving me my Serie A debut against Genoa. I didn’t expect it,” the defender said. “He is a coach who could succeed in the Premier League; he possesses innovative ideas. He deserves credit for never letting me feel like I had ‘made it.’ He consistently pushed me. He taught me a great deal and left a significant mark on my career. I owe him a great debt.”
Kayode joined Brentford from Fiorentina on an initial loan deal in January 2025, with the Premier League club making his transfer permanent for €17 million last summer. This season, the Italian defender has contributed one goal and two assists in 42 appearances across all competitions.