Michael Kayode has become a standout figure at Brentford this season, known for his powerful long throws but eager to showcase his complete game. The 21-year-old right-back, who joined the club permanently from Fiorentina for £15 million, has been a model of consistency, playing more minutes than any other player aged 21 or under in the Premier League this campaign.
Kayode's long throw is a genuine weapon. He launched one 65.4 meters last September, the longest recorded in the Premier League since Opta began tracking such data. This season, of his 157 throws into the box, 40 have led to shots and five have directly resulted in goals, accounting for nearly 10% of Brentford's total goals. Despite this, Kayode downplays its significance, noting the ball is out of play for throw-ins for only a few minutes per match. He also claims he doesn't practice the skill.
The defender's athleticism and physicality have been crucial for Brentford. He ranks among the top 10 players for distance covered in the league and is the second-highest running defender, having covered 355 kilometers. His all-action style was on display against West Ham, where he attacked the box to force the opening goal in a 3-0 win, and earlier against Ipswich, where he was spotted overlapping on the opposite flank.
Kayode's journey to the Premier League began in Italy. He spent seven years in Juventus's academy before dropping to Serie D with Gozzano at 14, making his first-team debut at 16. His performances there earned him a move to Fiorentina, where he gained attention for neutralizing star winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in a win over Napoli. He joined Brentford on loan in January 2025 before the permanent transfer.
The transition to English football has been smooth. Kayode describes the Premier League as a different challenge with more runs and duels, which he enjoys. His integration was aided by current head coach Keith Andrews, who was the set-piece coach under former manager Thomas Frank. Kayode credits Andrews for helping him understand tactics and settle in, praising the manager's impressive work in his first top job.
Brentford are having a strong season despite significant changes, including the sales of key players and the departure of Frank. The team could surpass their best-ever Premier League finish of ninth and their record points tally of 59 if they win at Manchester City. Kayode is focused on helping the club secure a European spot, a goal he believes is achievable given the squad's strong relationships.
On an individual level, Kayode harbors ambitions of a senior call-up to the Italy national team. He has spoken with members of the Azzurri's technical staff, including former defender Leonardo Bonucci, whom he met as an eight-year-old mascot during a Champions League match. The staff have advised him to keep performing and that a call-up will follow. Kayode also shared a personal milestone, using his trademark throw for a gender reveal at Brentford's stadium, confirming he and his partner are expecting a girl.
Based on reporting from Football | The Guardian.
