Victor Boniface’s situation at Bayer Leverkusen is on a thread, with head coach Xabi Alonso challenging the Nigerian striker for a relaunch. From an extraordinary first season with 21 goals and 10 assists, injuries have so far stopped his growth, giving space to Patrik Schick. Alonso has already stated that it will be up to Boniface to earn his place back in the team.
Boniface started the 2024/25 season well, netting seven goals in 15 matches, but an injury in November ruled him out for eight games. In his absence, Leverkusen mainstay Schick since 2020 has grasped full advantage, re-igniting competition for the starting role. Undeniably talented, Boniface’s extended absence could cost him his spot permanently.
But as the 24-year-old draws closer to his birthday on December 23, it’s hard to imagine stakes being any higher. The ultimate test has come: step up to the plate or be cast adrift in Alonso’s vision for Bayer Leverkusen’s future.
