Leeds United forward Noah Okafor has announced that he will no longer represent Switzerland while Murat Yakin remains the national team head coach, citing a breakdown in trust between them.
The 26-year-old was included in Switzerland’s World Cup squad following an impressive first season in the Premier League but made only one substitute appearance, coming on during the team’s last-32 victory over Algeria.
Okafor has now made himself unavailable for international selection, insisting that his decision was not driven by a lack of playing time.
“My decision has nothing to do with my playing time,” Okafor said in a social media statement. “Things happened that hurt me deeply. Trust was broken. Commitments were not kept.”
He also referred to the criticism he received after coming on against Algeria, saying reactions to minor mistakes made during the match had affected him deeply.
“ In the weeks that followed, I thought a lot and decided for myself that I no longer want to play for the national team under the current manager,” he said.
The Swiss Football Association confirmed Okafor’s decision, saying the player had informed officials that he would temporarily step away from international football.
“Noah informed us today that, for the time being, he will no longer play for the national team. We respect his decision and wish him every success with his club,” an association spokesperson said.
Okafor’s withdrawal comes ahead of Switzerland’s Nations League fixtures against North Macedonia, Scotland and Slovenia.
The Leeds forward had previously expressed frustration with Yakin and Swiss Football Association sporting director Pierluigi Tami after being left out of World Cup qualifying matches against Sweden and Kosovo last year.
“I never spoke with the coach, not even a phone call or a message, also with the sporting director Pierluigi Tami. They don’t even call me or ask me,” Okafor said at the time.
He added that the lack of communication had left him disappointed, particularly after his move to Leeds.
“For me, it makes no sense. I can say it makes me sad because they don’t even text me or call me to see how I am,” he said.
Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka had previously urged Okafor to concentrate on improving his performances and earning another opportunity with the national team rather than allowing the disagreement to escalate.
Okafor, who previously played for AC Milan, has made 26 appearances for Switzerland. He has also started Leeds’ last two Premier League matches, including their draw with Brighton last weekend.
His latest decision means he will remain unavailable for Switzerland for as long as Yakin remains in charge, based on the position outlined in his statement.
