Bursa, Turkey – Sept 28, 2026: Italy’s Michael Kayode threads a cross while under pressure from Turkey’s Eren Elmal during the Nations League group match at Atatürk Spor Kompleksi Matli Stadium.
Stramaccini believes the Brentford‑born Azzurri talent can evolve into one of the world’s finest right‑backs, joining a wave of promising youngsters.
Italy stumbled to a 2‑0 loss to Belgium on Mancini’s return, then bounced back with a 4‑1 win in Turkey and a 1‑1 draw in France.
The squad wraps up this international window by hosting Turkey at Bologna’s Stadio Dall’Ara on Monday, 19:45 UK time (20:45 CEST).
Will Kayode help Italy reach new heights?
Issa Doumbia impressed, Momo Zoma will have his moment, and if Kayode stays grounded, he can become one of the world’s best right‑backs, in my view, Stramaccini told Il Messaggero.
The Fiorentina academy product has thrived since joining Brentford, starting Italy’s last two matches and debuting in Bursa.
He isn’t the only youngster Mancini has trusted, and Stramaccini remains confident about the Azzurri’s future.
Alessandro Romano paid the price for a shaky opening against Belgium, yet his potential is clear; Matteo Ruggeri shone in Bursa.
Antonio Vergara made a strong impact in Paris’s tough spell, and his quality should make him more decisive in the final third soon.
Several stand‑outs in France were already on the senior radar, despite their youth.
Giorgio Scalvini displayed grit and focus, pairing well with Alessandro Bastoni; he looked seasoned, even as the youngest after Kayode and Pio Esposito, noted the former Inter and Udinese boss.
I also want to highlight Sebastiano Esposito; when he’s fully focused he can push his performance even higher.