Brentford defender, Michael Kayode can no longer represent Nigeria at the international level.
This is as the defender made a cap-tying appearance for Italy in their win over Türkiye on Monday.
Born in Borgomanero, Italy, Kayode was previously eligible to represent the Super Eagles through his Nigerian parentage.
Despite the Nigeria Football Federation’s attempts to persuade him to pledge his international future to Nigeria, he opted to represent his country of birth rather than the African powerhouse.
Wearing the number 2 jersey, Kayode was included in the starting XI as Roberto Mancini’s team decisively defeated Türkiye 4-1 in a UEFA Nations League match at the Atatürk Spor Kompleksi Matlı Stadium.
In the 27th minute of the match, the right-back became the first Italian defender to score on his international debut since Gian Marco Ferrari accomplished the feat in May 2021.
Before making his competitive debut for the four-time world champions, Kayode represented Italy at the U18, U19 and U21 levels.
Pursuant to FIFA’s eligibility regulations, Kayode is prohibited from requesting a change of sporting nationality because he had already reached the age of 22 at the time of his competitive senior debut, thereby permanently eliminating the possibility of switching from Italy to Nigeria.
Super Eagles: Brentford’s Michael Kayode will no longer play for Nigeria