Michael Kayode is the face of a multiethnic revitalization of Italy’s struggling national team

ROME (AP) — Michael Kayode, a 22-year-old right back born in Italy to Nigerian parents, is making waves as the face of a multiethnic revitalization of Italy's struggling national team. Kayode, who scored one goal and set up another in his Azzurri debut against Turkey, is likely to start again in Friday's Nations League match against France.

Roberto Mancini, Italy's newly rehired coach, has been searching for new faces to invigorate his team following their failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup. Kayode, who has played for Italy's under-18, under-19, and under-21 squads, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent his adopted nation.

Kayode's journey to the national team has been remarkable. From Italy's fourth division, Serie D, to the Premier League with Brentford, Kayode's career has taken off rapidly. His ability to excel in throw-ins, measured at over 40 yards, has become a key factor in his success. The coach also praised his throw-in skills, which have even been used in set plays during matches.

A former youth academy player at Juventus, Kayode was released at age 14 before joining Gozzano in Serie D. He later signed with Fiorentina's youth academy, and his rapid rise has led to his current position in the Italian national team. Despite not obtaining Italian citizenship until he turned 18, Kayode was allowed to play for Italy's junior national teams due to a "sporting birthright" rule.