Michael Kayode is an Italian professional footballer of Nigerian descent who plays as a right-back for Brentford in the Premier League. Known for his pace, energy and attacking ability, he has quickly built a reputation as one of the promising young defenders in English football.
Profile Summary
| Full name | Michael Olabode Kayode |
| Date of birth | 10 July 2004 |
| Place of birth | Borgomanero, Italy |
| Nationality | Italian |
| Heritage | Nigerian |
| State of origin | N/A |
| Partner | N/A |
| Children | None |
| Occupation | Professional footballer |
| Current club | Brentford |
| Position | Right-back |
| Jersey number | 33 |
| Height | 1.79 metres |
| Preferred foot | Right foot |
| Estimated net worth | £2 – £4 million |
Early Life and Education
Michael Olabode Kayode was born in Borgomanero, a town in northern Italy, on 10 July 2004, to Nigerian parents. Although he was raised in Italy and represents the country internationally, his Nigerian background remains an important part of his identity.
Kayode began playing football at a young age and spent several years in the Juventus academy. His time at Juventus helped him develop the technical and tactical foundations needed to compete at a professional level.
In 2018, he left Juventus and joined Gozzano. He continued his development there and gained valuable experience playing against older and more physically developed players. Details of his formal school education have not been widely made public.
Career
Gozzano
Kayode started his senior career with Gozzano. He made his professional debut while still a teenager and quickly attracted attention because of his athleticism and maturity.
During the 2020–21 season, he played an important role as Gozzano secured promotion to Serie C. His performances helped create a path to a move to a bigger club.
Fiorentina
In 2021, Kayode joined Fiorentina and became part of the club’s youth setup. He made steady progress through the academy and eventually earned promotion to the first team.
His Serie A debut came in 2023, when Fiorentina defeated Genoa 4–1. That appearance marked the beginning of his senior career at one of Italy’s leading clubs.
The 2023–24 season was his breakthrough year. Kayode featured regularly for Fiorentina, making 26 Serie A appearances, scoring once and providing two assists. He also played in the UEFA Europa Conference League, helping the club reach the final.
Brentford
Brentford signed Kayode on loan from Fiorentina in January 2025. He initially had to compete for a place in the team, but his performances soon convinced the coaching staff that he could play an important role.
He made the move permanent later in 2025 and signed an initial five-year contract. At Brentford, Kayode has been used mainly as a right-back, where his speed and willingness to support attacks have made him an influential player.
After an impressive 2025–26 season, Brentford rewarded him with a new long-term contract running until 2032, with an option for the club to extend it by another year. He was also nominated for the Premier League Young Player of the Season award.
Career Stats
Kayode’s statistics continue to change as he remains an active player. His main senior career figures include:
| Team or competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gozzano | Not consistently recorded across sources | 2 | 2 |
| Fiorentina, Serie A 2023–24 | 26 | 1 | 2 |
| Fiorentina, UEFA Europa Conference League | 6 | Not widely reported | Not widely reported |
| Brentford, Premier League | More than 49 | 1 | 2 |
| Italy Under-19 | 5 in UEFA Under-19 Championship records | 1 | Not widely reported |
| Italy Under-21 | Multiple appearances | Not widely reported | Not widely reported |
At international level, Kayode has represented Italy at several youth levels, including the Under-18, Under-19 and Under-21 teams. He has not publicly announced a decision to represent Nigeria at senior level.
Personal Life
Michael Kayode is in a relationship with Eleonora. In February 2026, the Brentford defender attracted widespread attention after staging a creative gender-reveal celebration at the stadium. Using his trademark long throw-in, he triggered pink smoke and fireworks, announcing that he and Eleonora were expecting a baby girl.
The couple welcomed their daughter, Amelie, in August 2026.
Net Worth and Salary
Michael Kayode’s estimated net worth is between £2 million and £4 million. This figure is based on his professional football earnings, transfer value, salary estimates and potential endorsement income.
His earnings are expected to have increased significantly after joining Brentford permanently and signing a long-term contract. However, Brentford has not officially released the full details of his salary, bonuses or endorsement income.
Honours
Italy Under-19
Kayode’s biggest achievement to date came with Italy Under-19. He scored the winning goal in the 2023 UEFA European Under-19 Championship final against Portugal, helping Italy win the tournament.
Other achievements
- Helped Gozzano secure promotion to Serie C.
- Reached the UEFA Europa Conference League final with Fiorentina.
- Earned recognition as one of Fiorentina’s most promising young defenders.
- Nominated for the Premier League Young Player of the Season award after the 2025–26 campaign.
- Signed a new Brentford contract running until 2032, with an additional-year option.
