Switzerland boss Murat Yakin has again taken a swipe at Leeds United winger Noah OKafor this week as his international snub continues.
Leeds have one more game before the November international break, looking to get back on track after a worrying defeat at Brighton.
Multiple players from Daniel Farke’s squad will be out on duty for their countries, but Noah Okafor is interestingly staying at home again.
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Switzerland boss Murat Yakin has stern words for Leeds United winger Noah Okafor again
Okafor hasn’t kicked a ball for his country since November 2024, and continues to be snubbed this month as Murat Yakin looks elsewhere for attacking options.
It hasn’t hampered their qualification for the 2026 World Cup, as they’re on the cusp of confirming their place next year, needing a win from their last two games to qualify.
When asked about why Okafor wasn’t named for the upcoming fixtures, Yakin was keen to set the record straight from his view.
Murat Yakin has explained why he hasn’t called up Leeds United’s Noah Okafor to the Switzerland squad. (REUTERS/Denis Balibouse)
“I’ve spoken with Okafor repeatedly, telling him what I expect from him on and off the pitch. I hope my words eventually get through to him,” he said to Swiss outlet Watson.
“We’ll continue to monitor him. Attacking players are also measured by their goalscoring. Those who are currently in the squad have an advantage over Okafor in that regard.”
Win-win for Leeds United as they keep Noah Okafor in cotton wool
This situation is a win-win for Leeds. It’s obviously frustrating to have our star winger pegged with perceived attitude issues. Digging him out publicly again is unnecessary at this point from Yakin, when he’s not even in the squad.
Leeds United’s Noah Okafor is hoping to prove Swizterland manager Murat Yakin wrong. (Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Boyers)
However, if we’re being selfish about what Leeds need more than anything, Okafor staying fit is more important right now.
The difference he makes to our attack is huge. No other option we have in our squad can do what he does 1v1 out wide. Him staying fit could be make-or-break for our survival hopes.
Of course, if Okafor was performing well enough to change Yakin’s mind, that’s also a massive plus for Leeds. He’s already Leeds’ best attacker. If he ups his game to get back into the Switzerland side, he’ll no doubt be in blistering club form.
For now, managing his legs with as few complications as possible can only be benefitted by playing solely Premier League football.
Read more: Is Daniel Farke under big pressure if he can’t get a result at Nottingham Forest?