Okafor refuses to play with Switzerland if Yakin remains coach

In conflict with his coach, Noah Okafor announced on Thursday that he will no longer wear the Swiss shirt as long as Murat Yakin remains at the helm of the Nati. The Leeds winger, 26 years old and with 26 caps, was present at the World Cup.

Conflict and Okafor's decision

In an Instagram post, the player wrote: “Things happened that deeply hurt me. Trust has been broken.” He recalled that the commitments made during the World Cup had not been kept.

He added that, even when he was allowed to play against Algeria, he was criticised for small mistakes, which deeply hurt him. In the following weeks, he thought a lot before deciding not to play under the current coach's orders.

An official statement from the Swiss Federation (ASF) confirmed that the decision has nothing to do with his playing time. A spokesperson said they respect Okafor's choice and wish him success with his club.

Federation's reaction and upcoming matches

The Nati, led by Murat Yakin, will face North Macedonia, Slovenia and Scotland in League B of the Nations League from September 26. These matches will be played without Okafor's participation.

It remains to be seen how this split will affect the national team's dynamics, as Switzerland prepares for these crucial fixtures.