Victor Boniface: 2 factors behind Nigerian star’s reduced role at Leverkusen 

Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface could be facing an exit from German Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen in the next transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

Boniface joined Leverkusen from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise in 2023 and enjoyed an impressive start to life at the club, helping them secure a historic Bundesliga title during the 2023-24 season.

The Nigerian striker was named the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season for that campaign and was also included in the Bundesliga Team of the Season. However, injuries and fitness concerns over the years have seen Boniface take on a reduced role at the club.

He spent part of last season on loan at Werder Bremen in an attempt to get his career back on track, but his time there did little to change his situation as injuries once again limited his opportunities.

Boniface was linked with an exit during the summer transfer window, with Hannover among the clubs reportedly interested in signing him. However, he eventually remained at Leverkusen as he looked to revive his career and fight for his place in the team.

So far, that decision has not worked out as hoped. The 25-year-old has made just one appearance across all competitions this season, providing an assist in Leverkusen’s 3-2 defeat to Elversberg in their opening game of the campaign.

He has not featured since then and was left out of the squad for Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Augsburg due to fitness concerns. Boniface was also left out of Leverkusen’s Europa League squad for the league phase, further raising questions about his future at the club.

With his playing time already limited, the Nigerian could now consider a move in January in search of regular football and there are two major factors behind his reduced role at Leverkusen.

Competition for places in attack

One major reason behind Victor Boniface’s reduced role at Leverkusen is the high level of competition for places in attack.

The Nigerian forward is currently behind both Patrick Schick and Christian Kofane in the pecking order, and the form of the two forwards has made it difficult for him to force his way into the starting lineup.

Schick has scored four goals in four appearances across all competitions this season, while Kofane has also found the net three times in four games.

Their strong start to the season has put both players ahead of Boniface, making it difficult for him to displace either of them at the moment.

Even when Leverkusen use two strikers, both Schick and Kofane are likely to be preferred ahead of the Nigerian based on their current form. Boniface therefore faces a difficult battle for playing time, especially if the two forwards continue to deliver in front of goal.

Victor Boniface’s injury concerns

Another major factor behind Boniface’s limited involvement this season has been his fitness. The Nigerian underwent surgery on a knee problem in January and has been working his way back to full fitness since then.

Although he featured during pre-season as he looked to regain his sharpness, Leverkusen have been cautious with his involvement as he continues his recovery.

His fitness concerns were highlighted again when he missed the 2-2 draw against Augsburg and was subsequently left out of the club’s Europa League squad for the league phase.

The fitness issues have affected Boniface’s ability to build momentum and establish himself as a regular option in Leverkusen’s attack.

The Nigerian striker will be hoping for more opportunities as the season progresses. However, if his situation does not change, Boniface could consider leaving Leverkusen in January in search of regular playing time and an opportunity to revive his career.