Super Eagles: 2 ways Leverkusen’s decision could affect Boniface’s career

Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface could be facing the end of his Bayer Leverkusen career after the club’s latest decision left his future looking increasingly uncertain.

Boniface joined Leverkusen in 2023 and quickly became one of the most important players in the team. The Nigerian striker played a major role in the club’s historic Bundesliga triumph during rhe 2023/24 season, helping them win the league and cup double titles and enjoying an impressive individual campaign.

His performances earned him the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season award and a place in the league’s Team of the Season as Leverkusen enjoyed one of the best campaigns in their history.

However, things have been more difficult for Boniface since then. The Super Eagles forward has suffered from recurrent injury problems, while two failed moves away from the club have disrupted his progress.

Boniface also endured an unsuccessful spell at Werder Bremen last season. This season has brought further frustration, with the 25-year-old struggling for regular playing time.

Leverkusen’s latest decision could make his situation even more difficult after Boniface was left out of the club’s Europa League squad. The Super Eagles striker was overlooked despite having the chance to be added as a replacement for an injured player.

Boniface: Two ways Leverkusen’s decision could affect Super Eagles star’s career

1. It could slow down his development

With Leverkusen’s decision of leaving Boniface out of their Europa League squad, it means the Super Eagles forward will have fewer opportunities to play and show what he can do.

The Nigerian forward needs regular football to rebuild his confidence and rediscover the form that made him one of the Bundesliga’s most exciting strikers.

However, without European matches to compete in, his chances of getting consistent minutes could become even more limited, especially as he has fallen down the pecking order in the centre forward position.

At this stage of his career, Boniface cannot afford to spend long periods on the sidelines or simply remain part of the squad without playing regularly.

A lack of minutes could affect his sharpness and make it even harder for him to regain the level that saw him become such an important player during Leverkusen’s title-winning campaign.

2. His Super Eagles chances could become even more difficult

The situation could also hurt Boniface’s chances of forcing his way back into the Super Eagles team.

Competition for places in Nigeria’s attack is already intense, and players who are performing regularly for their clubs are likely to have an advantage.

Victor Osimhen remains the leading option in attack, while Kelechi Iheanacho’s recent form could strengthen his position in the pecking order, with several other attacking players are also pushing for opportunities.

Without regular club football, it will be difficult for the Leverkusen forward to convince the Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle that he deserves a place in the squad.

He could find himself falling further down the pecking order if other Nigerian forwards continue to perform well.

Boniface may therefore need to consider a move away from Leverkusen to rediscover his form and get his career back on track.

The January transfer window could offer him that opportunity, with a number of clubs potentially providing the Super Eagles striker with a fresh start and the regular football he needs to return to his best.