The future of Nigerian international Victor Boniface at Bayer Leverkusen has been thrown into doubt following the appointment of Erik Ten Hag as the club’s new head coach. Ten Hag, who was appointed just over a month ago, has reportedly made a decision on Boniface’s future at the club.
According to reports, Ten Hag plans to test Boniface and Patrik Schick in a two-pronged attack in his system during pre-season. This tactic would see Boniface, who loves to have the ball on his feet and often drops into midfield to link up play, partner with Schick, who prefers to lurk around the box and pounce on available opportunities. If this tactic works, Ten Hag may employ it next season, potentially keeping Boniface at the club.
Boniface, who joined Bayer Leverkusen from Belgian club Royale Union SG two years ago, has made a significant impact at the club. In his debut season, he contributed 21 goals and 10 assists in 37 appearances across all competitions. However, last season, he managed just 11 goals and two assists in 27 games, largely due to injuries. As a result, he lost his spot in the starting lineup and was often relegated to the bench.
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Despite Ten Hag’s plans to test Boniface in a new formation, there are still rumors of a potential departure this summer. Boniface was close to leaving the club in January, with Al Nassr offering a significant contract, but the deal ultimately fell through. With three years left on his contract, Boniface may have to stick with Bayer Leverkusen if no suitable offers are received. Newcastle United is reportedly one of the few clubs interested in signing him.
Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface. (Photo credit: Getty images)
The 24-year-old doesn’t seem interested in leaving Leverkusen at the moment, and his focus is on proving himself under Ten Hag. In fact, Boniface has been working hard to improve his fitness, recently training at the Marbella Football Centre in Spain, a facility used by top athletes, including Diego Maradona.
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As the transfer window remains open, Boniface’s future hangs in the balance. Will he stay at Bayer Leverkusen and prove himself under Ten Hag, or will he make a move to a new club? Only time will tell. The upcoming pre-season offers Victor Boniface an opportunity to prove himself to Eric Ten Hag that he is the right man to lead the line for Bayer Leverkusen.
