Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface has expressed deep gratitude to his soon-to-depart manager, Xabi Alonso, as the Spanish tactician prepares to leave Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season.
The news, has sent shockwaves through the Bundesliga, with Alonso widely regarded as the architect of Leverkusen’s remarkable resurgence over the past two years.
Alonso, the former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfield maestro, took charge of Bayer Leverkusen in October 2022, replacing Gerardo Seoane during one of the club’s most turbulent periods.
At the time, Leverkusen were languishing near the relegation zone, but Alonso’s arrival marked a dramatic turnaround. Under his guidance, the team developed an attractive, possession-based style of play, blending youth and experience to great effect.
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One of Alonso’s most impactful decisions was signing Victor Boniface from Union Saint-Gilloise in the summer of 2023. The Nigerian striker quickly became a fan favorite, combining physicality, technical skill, and a keen eye for goal.
Despite suffering an injury setback in the 2024-25 campaign, Boniface has still managed eight goals and assists, playing a crucial role in Leverkusen’s impressive season.
Now, with Alonso strongly linked to Real Madrid—where he is expected to replace Carlo Ancelotti, who is set to take over as Brazil’s national team coach—Boniface took to social media to pen an emotional farewell.
Victor Boniface taking instructions from gaffer Xabi Alonso during Bayer Leverkusen’s Monday training
“Coach Alonso believed in me when many didn’t,” Boniface wrote.
“His guidance transformed my game, and I’ll always be grateful. Wishing him the best in his next chapter.”
Interestingly, reports suggest that Alonso has already identified Boniface as a potential transfer target for Real Madrid. If the move materializes, the 23-year-old striker could find himself competing with the likes of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior for a starting spot—a tantalizing prospect for the rising star.
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As Leverkusen prepares for life after Alonso, fans will undoubtedly remember his tenure as a golden era, while Boniface’s future remains a captivating subplot in what promises to be a dramatic summer transfer window.
