Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso believes Victor Boniface could evolve into a forward reminiscent of Chelsea and Ivory Coast legend Didier Drogba.
Alonso and his Bayer Leverkusen side secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Italian giants AC Milan in a UEFA Champions League fixture on Tuesday night at the Bay Arena, thanks to Boniface's strike in the 51st minute.
The Spanish manager believes the Super Eagles forward is on the path to greatness but emphasised that a touch more aggression in his play would further enhance his development.
Alonso: ‘A bit more aggression could elevate Boniface'
Following the team's victory over Milan, Alonso shared his vision for Boniface's potential during the post-match press conference.
“He had great chances, especially against Emerson in the first half. We help him a lot, and in the end, he scored and did an excellent job,” Alonso said.
“Do I want Boniface closer to the goal, like Drogba? He has many qualities that can bring him closer to that level. Sometimes he needs to be more aggressive in attacking the goal, and that’s a process where we need to help him.”
Alonso's statement reinforces Boniface's recent admission that the Leverkusen manager is encouraging him to emulate Drogba's style of play.
“He tells me to watch Drogba. To be honest, in the last game, which we won 4-3, before I came on, he told me to be strong, to be in the box, to play like Drogba. He’s always behind us and we want to give 100% because we trust him,” he said.
The 23-year-old has scored three goals and provided one assist in seven appearances across all competitions for the German champions this season.
