Noah Okafor is set for a lengthy spell out of the Switzerland national team after director Pierluigi Tami explained the winger's qualities do not fit coach Murat Yakin's tactical approach. The 26-year-old Leeds United forward, who joined from AC Milan last summer, has been omitted from the latest squad.
Pierluigi Tami addressed the situation, stating the coach had made every effort to integrate Okafor. He admitted he did not want to lose the player but said his performances ultimately did not satisfy the coaching staff. "The players only see the issue from their own perspective," Tami said. "The coach has to see the whole picture."
Okafor has made five Premier League appearances for Leeds this season, scoring once in the 4-1 win over Newcastle. He is considered an important part of Daniel Farke's set-up at Elland Road, where the team currently sits fifth in the table with nine points from five games. His only goal this term came in that victory, which is part of a recent run of form that reads one win, three draws and one defeat.
Despite late transfer interest from Sunderland on deadline day, Okafor indicated he had no intention of leaving Leeds. His focus remains on club duty ahead of a tough trip to face second-placed Arsenal on 10 October.
For Switzerland, who reached the World Cup quarter-finals under Yakin, the door appears closed for now. Tami's comments suggest a fundamental mismatch in how the player is viewed. "I never wanted to lose such a good athlete as him," Tami added, acknowledging Okafor's talent but standing by the coach's decision. The winger will now aim to maintain his place in a Leeds side looking to build on a solid start, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin leading the scoring charts with three goals. Check the latest standings to see how the table shapes up.
More detail at Inside Futbol
