Super Eagles: Why Victor Boniface must push for Bayer Leverkusen exit now

Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface has been the subject of discussion at Bayer Leverkusen after he ran straight into the dressing room immediately after the final whistle in their 4–3 win over Mainz on Saturday.

​The striker failed to get minutes once again under coach Carles Martinez, and it seemed he was unhappy about the situation, although that remains unconfirmed. In fact, he appeared quite cheerful in the videos he posted on social media after the game, joking with teammate Eliesse Ben Seghir in the dressing room.

​However, after Saturday’s incident, it is high time the striker started thinking about leaving the BayArena.

​Seven games into the season, the 25-year-old forward has played just five minutes. The situation has grown so dire that even in matches where the team desperately needs goals, Martinez refuses to turn to him.

​The coach apparently prefers Afonso Moreira over Boniface. Also, even with Christian Kofane sidelined through injury, it is evident that the Cameroonian remains the squad’s preferred second-choice striker.

​This dynamic has been on since the start of the campaign, and unfortunately for Boniface, nothing suggests it is about to change.

​Why Is Victor Boniface Not Playing?

​Victor Boniface spent the majority of last season on the sidelines due to a persistent knee problem. Consequently, even when he returned toward the end of the campaign, the medical and coaching staff handled him with extreme caution.

​However, once pre-season got underway, the striker began logging minutes again. He even netted a brace in their opening friendly. The Super Eagles star continued to deliver, scoring against Genk, Offenbach, and Wehen, while also providing an assist against Newcastle.

​Clearly, it appeared he had put his injury woes behind him. Yet now that the competitive season has begun, Martinez has barely given him a look. He has even been omitted from the matchday squad entirely on two occasions.

​Why He Has to Push for an Exit Now

​Judging by how Boniface is being handled, Martinez clearly does not fancy him. As a result, the forward may need to explore his options elsewhere.

​He still has two years remaining on his Bayer Leverkusen contract, and he cannot afford to spend them languishing on the bench — especially if Martinez remains in charge.

​His primary issue is no longer fitness; rather, it is a lack of game time. Leaving the BayArena may well be the best move for his career right now.

​For a player who has spent so much time battling injuries, consistent match sharpness is essential to returning to his peak form.

He is currently a shadow of the forward who went toe-to-toe with Harry Kane for the Bundesliga top scorer title a few seasons ago, but regular playing time could help him rediscover that rhythm.

​Five minutes across seven games is not a reality Boniface can accept at this stage of his career. Regular minutes must be his priority.