Michael Kayode, the 21-year-old Italy Under-21 international and Brentford right-back, has opened up about the stark differences between Italian and English football—and why he has no regrets about his journey, even after being let go by Juventus.

Speaking on the podcast Chiamarsi Bomber, Kayode shared his insights on why Premier League football feels faster-paced than Serie A. "The training is much tougher in Italy, and you get far fewer days off," he explained. "Here in England, you train four to five times a week, then you rest a lot more. That's probably why English football seems to have a higher tempo—you only train as much as you need to, so you feel fresh both physically and mentally when match day comes."

He added that the approach to training itself is different. "In England, sessions are almost always 11 vs. 11, and we rarely spend much time on tactics. It's about taking men on, being direct. Plus, the extra rest gives you more time with your loved ones. That balance makes a big difference."

Kayode's path to the Premier League wasn't straightforward. After rising through the youth academies at Juventus and Fiorentina, he faced a pivotal moment when the Old Lady decided not to bring him back from a loan spell at Gozzano. "I might seem crazy, but I don't regret it at all," he said. "Being let go by Juve gave me the strength to push harder and reach this level. Out of about 60 kids in that group, only two or three are now playing professionally. Gozzano gave me a chance at age 16 to keep playing, and that changed everything."

Since his €18 million move to Brentford in January 2025, Kayode has made 41 appearances for the Bees, contributing one goal and two assists from his right-back position. He's also a regular for Italy's Under-21 side, proving that setbacks can fuel success.

For fans who love the game, Kayode's story is a reminder that the right environment—whether it's a club's training philosophy or a second chance—can make all the difference. And for those who suit up every weekend, it's a lesson in finding the balance between hard work and recovery.