Nigeria’s hopes of securing two of Europe’s fast-rising defensive prospects have taken a major hit, as Italy step up their pursuit of Michael Kayode and Honest Ahanor with timely international call-ups.
Both players, who have been on the radar of the Nigeria Football Federation over the past year, are now edging closer to committing their futures to Italy after being drafted into the country’s Under-21 setup during the current international window.
Kayode, who has been a standout performer for Brentford FC this season, continues to impress with his relentless energy, defensive solidity, and dangerous long throw-ins from the right-back position. His rapid rise in the Premier League has not gone unnoticed, making him one of the most exciting dual-nationality prospects available to Nigeria.
On the other hand, teenage sensation Ahanor has quickly justified his €17 million move from Genoa CFC to Atalanta BC. At just 18, he combines technical quality with physical strength and blistering pace, marking him out as a long-term defensive asset.
Despite strong interest from Nigeria, Italy appear to have seized the initiative. Ahanor was initially named in head coach Silvio Baldini’s Under-21 squad, with Kayode later joining him on the list, a move that signals clear intent from the European nation.
While FIFA eligibility rules still allow both players to switch allegiance as youth appearances do not permanently tie them, their acceptance of Italy’s invitations suggests a growing alignment with the Azzurri project.
For Nigeria, this development represents a worrying trend in the battle for dual-national talents. Although the door remains open until either player features in a competitive senior match for Italy, the momentum is now firmly with the four-time world champion Unless there is a dramatic shift in circumstances, the Super Eagles may be forced into a waiting game hoping opportunity, rather than planning, eventually swings the pendulum back in their favour.
