SHOCKING ADMISSION: “WE TRIED EVERYTHING!” — Director Reveals Why Leeds Player Was FINALLY Given Up On

Switzerland director Pierluigi Tami says Leeds United’s Noah Okafor doesn’t fit Murat Yakin’s system and attempts to accommodate him were unsuccessful.

Earlier this month, the 26-year-old announced his retirement from international football and was openly critical of the national team.

Okafor’s conduct during Euro 2024 was questionable and reportedly did not please his Switzerland teammates and coaching staff. He also had a misunderstanding with Yakin during the tournament.

Okafor did not feature for his country in 2025. Last November, he criticised the manager and national team director. In February, the pair travelled to the UK and held positive discussions with the player, which led to his return.

The attacker missed March’s international break due to an injury and represented Switzerland at the World Cup, where he made just one appearance.

Manager clearly unhappy with Leeds United man

Last week, Murat Yakin said Noah Okafor’s display against Algeria in the World Cup did not satisfy him.

On Monday, Pierluigi Tami held a press conference, with Blick relaying his comments.

When asked about the Leeds United attacker’s retirement, the national team director said he did not want to see a talented player like Okafor stop representing Switzerland. However, Tami still supports Yakin’s decision.

“I never wanted to lose such a good athlete like him. But Murat was very clear in his press conference. Noah’s qualities sometimes don’t fit his playing style. Murat explained well why Noah doesn’t have a place on the team,” he said.

“The players only see the issue from their own perspective. The coach has to see the whole picture. Murat tried everything to integrate him. In the end, we weren’t satisfied with his performance.”

What next for Leeds United player

Murat Yakin has been Switzerland’s national team manager since 2021 and has a contract running until July 2028.

The recent comments from the Leeds United man, the coach and Pierluigi Tami suggest the player is unlikely to represent Switzerland again, at least while Yakin remains in charge. He has recorded two goals and two assists in 26 appearances for his country.

This season, Noah Okafor has contributed one goal and one assist in seven appearances for Daniel Farke’s side.