Trouble For Boniface! Leverkusen Boss Reacts After Nigerian Striker’s Reported Frustration

Nigerian international Victor Boniface has reportedly received a warning from Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes following claims that the striker headed to the dressing room after being overlooked during the club’s 4-3 Bundesliga victory over Mainz on Saturday.

The 25-year-old forward remained on the bench throughout the encounter as head coach Carles Martínez made his final substitutions in the 84th minute, introducing Equi Fernández and Jonas Hofmann for Aleix García and Patrik Schick.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Boniface reportedly left the bench and walked down the tunnel after realising he would not be given an opportunity to feature in the match.

Martínez said he did not notice the alleged incident while the game was ongoing but indicated that he would discuss the matter with the Nigerian striker if the reports were accurate.

The Leverkusen manager stressed that decisions over playing time and team selection were part of football, adding that he would address the situation with the player.

Rolfes also commented on the incident, issuing a warning in a light-hearted manner. The sporting director suggested that Boniface may have entered the dressing room earlier than expected and indicated that such a situation should not happen again.

Despite the reported incident, Rolfes praised the striker’s improving fitness and professionalism, describing him as a positive member of the squad and training group.

Boniface has endured a difficult period in terms of playing opportunities this season, managing just one Bundesliga appearance. He featured for five minutes in Leverkusen’s 3-2 opening-day defeat to SV Elversberg, providing an assist for Christian Kofane.

The Super Eagles forward has since been left out of the action against Union Berlin, Leipzig and Mainz, while he was not involved in the fixture against Augsburg.

However, Kofane’s recent injury could create an opportunity for Boniface to earn more playing time as he attempts to re-establish himself in the Leverkusen squad.

The German club’s Europa League trip to Lech Poznań on Thursday could also provide the Nigerian forward with another chance to impress, depending on Martínez’s selection decisions.

Boniface will hope to take advantage of any opportunity that comes his way as he looks to regain his place in the team and make a stronger impact in Leverkusen’s campaign.