Noah Okafor’s exclusion from Switzerland’s latest squad has reignited tensions between the Leeds United attacker and national coach Murat Yakin. The forward, who joined Leeds in the summer, publicly admitted this week that he was “sad” and “confused” to have been left out — claiming Yakin has not contacted him in over a year.
The rift dates back to Euro 2024, when Okafor clashed with the coach after bringing a third party to a private meeting about his role in the squad. The fallout saw him benched for the remainder of the tournament, and relations have since remained frosty.
Yakin has since responded, saying he had in fact spoken to the player and hoped his message would “get through to him,” though there was little sign of reconciliation.
Journalist Calls Okafor “Not a Team Player”
Swiss outlet Blick published a column by journalist Tobias Wedermann, who offered a stinging assessment of Okafor’s attitude and timing. According to Wedermann, the Leeds man’s comments were self-serving and risked undermining harmony within the national team.
“Noah Okafor is not a team player and prioritises his own interests over those of the team,” Wedermann wrote. “He can think of nothing better to do than to thrust himself into the media spotlight and risk causing unrest within the national team.”
The journalist acknowledged Okafor’s potential but said his focus has drifted since his 2023 transfer from RB Salzburg to AC Milan, and now to Leeds.
“Swiss football fans were thrilled with the great talent Noah Okafor when he shone with top performances and goal contributions in the final World Cup qualifiers in 2021,” Wedermann recalled. “But ever since his move to AC Milan, his self-perception and reality have diverged significantly.”
Wedermann argued that while Okafor’s frustration was understandable, his decision to air grievances publicly only confirmed existing doubts about his commitment to the collective cause.
World Cup 2026 Implications
With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Okafor’s strained relationship with Yakin could cost him a spot on football’s biggest stage. The 25-year-old has played little part in Switzerland’s plans since spring 2024, despite showing flashes of quality for Leeds this season.
For now, the Swiss media appear unconvinced by his attempts to mend fences — and Wedermann’s remarks underline the growing perception that Okafor must rebuild trust both on and off the pitch.
Our View — Time for Reflection, Not Reaction
In our view, Okafor’s frustration is understandable, but timing is everything. Speaking out while out of favour rarely wins points with coaches or teammates. The Leeds forward would be better served channelling that energy into performances at Elland Road — proving through actions rather than interviews that he deserves another international chance.
Key Insights
- Big takeaway: Journalist Tobias Wedermann says Noah Okafor “is not a team player.”
- Context: The Leeds attacker is in a public dispute with Swiss coach Murat Yakin.
- Quote: “He risks causing unrest within the national team.”
- Career note: Okafor has not featured for Switzerland since Euro 2024.
- World Cup outlook: His place for 2026 is now in serious doubt.
What’s Next
Leeds United return to Premier League tomorrow against Nottingham Forest, and Okafor will look to respond on the pitch as speculation over his international future grows.
👉 Leeds fans — should Okafor keep speaking out or let his football do the talking?
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