Brentford defender Kayode called up to Italy U21 after Gattuso play-off snub
Brentford defender Kayode called up to Italy U21 after Gattuso play-off snub Michael Kayode has received a call-up to the Italy U21 squad after being overlooked by Gennaro Gattuso for the senior side’s World Cup play-offs. The 2004-born defender, currently impressing at Brentford following his move from Fiorentina, has been enjoying a strong season in the Premier League. Despite that form, he was not included in Gattuso’s squad for Italy’s crucial upcoming fixtures.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – JANUARY 04: Michael Kayode of Brentford during the Premier League match between Everton and Brentford at Hill Dickinson Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) Baldini calls Kayode up to Italy U21 after no Azzurri call-up from Gattuso The full-back has instead been drafted into the U21 setup by Silvio Baldini and is expected to join the group in Tirrenia later today, as per FiorentinaNews . His omission from the senior squad has raised some eyebrows, particularly given the form of several current and former Fiorentina players.
Alongside Kayode , names such as Nicolo Fagioli and Federico Bernardeschi were also left out despite strong recent performances. The decision has sparked debate over selection choices ahead of the play-offs, with the Brentford man’s continued development now set to continue at youth level for the time being.