Switzerland manager Murat Yakin has issued his response to Leeds United’s Noah Okafor after he announced his international retirement.
The Leeds man insisted this week he would not be continuing for Switzerland while Yakin is in charge. He has accused the Switzerland manager of a lack of respect.
It’s the latest development in what has been a long running feud between the two over the last few years. The response in Switzerland has not been how he perhaps would have wanted it to be.
Negative response
For example, Sport Witness reported that he has basically been told that he’s taking himself too seriously once again.
The knives has also seen the knives out, with family drama made public too.
The Swiss National team, meanwhile, have maintained silence. They have instead left the matter to Murat Yakin to deal with. Now he’s been given his chance to do so, and he’s not holding back.
“In March, he didn’t play because he was injured,” he said.
“He was also injured before the World Cup. I don’t know what promises or agreements supposedly weren’t kept. At that time, other players were much further along than he was. He had the opportunity to play, and I evaluated his performances.”
He then turned his attention to the 19 minutes Okafor had against Algeria in the round of 32.
“I wasn’t satisfied with his defensive work,” he added.
“Competition is fierce, and I have plenty of good players at my disposal. I am always open to discussion, but speaking out publicly has never had a positive effect on me.”
Return unlikely
The questions then turned to the possibility of the Leeds forward one day returning to the national team. Yakin did not publicly close the door. But reading between the lines, it is clear he no longer counts on him either.
“Anyone can make themselves eligible for selection again through their performances; the rule applies to everyone,” he continued.
“We currently have competition for his position, particularly from young players who are desperate to be here and play for their country. I am counting on those who are motivated—those who put the team and its success ahead of their own personal interests.”
What he wasn’t impressed about, was Okafor’s social media output. His post about leaving the national team gained numerous likes and comments from national team players, including Granit Xhaka.
That’s something that Yakin has already spoken to other players about.
“I don’t know if they ‘liked’ the announcement of his retirement more than the actual content,” he concluded.
