Leeds United attacker ‘not a team player’ says journalist in lengthy criticism

Leeds United forward Noah Okafor has been labelled ‘not a team player’ after his outburst this week.

The criticism comes from journalist Tobias Wedermann, via Blick. The Leeds man publicly expressed his sadness and confusion this week after he was left out of Switzerland’s squad.

He’s been in an open dispute with Switzerland manager Murat Yakin since Euro 2024. The player had a public disagreement with Yakin at that tournament.

Okafor revealed Yakin has not contacted him in more than a year. He labelled it “really, really sad” as he would love to still be playing for his country.

According to him, the 2024 dispute came after Okafor brought a third party to a meeting with Yakin to discuss his role. He was subsequently benched for the rest of the tournament.

Yakin has since hit back at the comments, insisting he’d spoken to the Leeds United man and hoped his words “get through to him”. He showed no signs of the dispute coming to an end anytime soon.

Leeds United player criticised by Swiss journalist

That should be particularly concerning for the Leeds forward, with the World Cup around the corner in 2026. His comments have not gone down well and Wedermann is one of those who is unimpressed.

“Swiss football fans were thrilled with the great talent Noah Okafor when he shone with top performances and goal contributions in the final two World Cup qualifiers in November 2021,” he wrote about the matter.

“Everyone was certain: the Basel native had a bright future with the national team. But ever since his move from RB Salzburg to AC Milan, Noah Okafor’s self-perception and reality have diverged significantly.

“It’s perfectly understandable that the 25-year-old is disappointed. With one minor exception, he has played virtually no role in the Swiss national team since spring 2024.

“It’s also understandable that he’s drawing public attention to the fact that he doesn’t just stand out by flaunting his luxurious lifestyle but actually has the potential to be a truly great footballer.

“However, the timing of his interview underscores all the prejudices and concerns currently held within the national team. Noah Okafor is not a team player and prioritises his own interests over those of the team.

“He can think of nothing better to do than to thrust himself into the media spotlight right now and risk causing unrest within the national team.”