Noah Okafor's Leeds United Comeback: Ready to Prove Himself

Noah Okafor did not need long on the pitch to make his presence felt. Nineteen minutes. First pre-season outing. Manchester United the opponents. For the Leeds United forward, that was enough to feel like football was properly back.

The Switzerland international only returned to training last week after an extended break, his summer stretched out by a run to the World Cup quarter-finals. The body rested. The mind, not so much.

“It was amazing to be back with the team on the pitch,” Okafor told BBC Radio Leeds, the relief obvious. “I was really happy to be back and now we just have to keep building, working and looking forward day by day.”

World Cup frustration fuels Leeds focus

His summer on the global stage never really caught fire. Okafor managed just 19 minutes for Switzerland, all as a substitute. For a player who arrived at the tournament off the back of what he called an “amazing season”, the lack of involvement still stings.

“The World Cup was not so good for me because I didn’t play so much. The coach didn’t let me play, I don’t know why because I did really great,” he said.

There was no attempt to hide the disappointment. But he has already decided where that frustration goes.

“I came with a lot of confidence, I did an amazing season but in the end he just decides like this,” he continued. “But now I keep it to the side, so just focus on Leeds. Give every day 100% in training and this season help the team again like last season.”

That shift in focus suits Leeds. A forward with a point to prove is rarely a bad thing.

“When it starts I am ready”

Against Manchester United, Okafor’s cameo was a reminder of what he brings: direct running, sharp movement, a willingness to stretch defenders. It felt familiar to him too.

“That’s the game I play, the game I used to play,” he said. “I need a few more days to work on my fitness… then when it starts I am ready.”

Last season he produced eight goals and one assist in 28 Premier League appearances. Solid numbers for a player still adapting to the division and a new environment. He thinks that adjustment period is over.

“I am even more hungry than last season,” he admitted. “I adapted more in the Premier League and adapted to the team. The most important thing is to stay healthy and fit, keep every day with a smile and try to help the team with goals and assists.”

The message is clear. The World Cup is parked. The frustration has been banked. Now Okafor wants to turn it into something Leeds can feel every weekend.