Bayer Leverkusen are optimistic that Victor Boniface will return to full fitness and strong performance levels ahead of the new season after injury struggles

Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has expressed confidence that Nigerian striker Victor Boniface can return to his best form after a difficult spell marked by injuries and fitness concerns.

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Boniface, who enjoyed a standout debut season in Germany following his move from Union Saint-Gilloise in 2023, played a key role in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga triumph under Xabi Alonso, finishing the campaign with 21 goals and nine assists.

His early success saw him earn multiple Rookie of the Month awards and establish himself as one of the club’s most important attacking players.

However, his momentum stalled in the following seasons due to recurring knee problems that limited his consistency and availability.

The forward managed 11 goals and one assist in the 2024/25 campaign before a series of setbacks, including failed transfer moves and injury-related concerns that disrupted his progress.

A loan spell at Werder Bremen did little to revive his fortunes, as he struggled to find form and failed to score in 11 appearances amid ongoing fitness issues.

Leverkusen’s sporting director has now moved to reassure supporters that the club remains committed to helping the 25-year-old striker recover fully ahead of the new season.

“The knee looks pretty good today. But the weight is a bit of his weak spot. It’s our goal to get him back in top form. Then he has a chance to play for many teams,” Rolfes said.

He added that the club maintains regular contact with the Nigerian forward and still values his contribution to their title-winning campaign.

“We text every few days. We will never forget what Boniface did for us in the season we won the league. That’s when he embodied what we needed, this attack mode,” he said.

Boniface, whose contract runs until 2028, is expected to undergo a crucial pre-season as he looks to regain full fitness and convince the coaching staff he can once again lead the line effectively.

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Leverkusen, who finished sixth in the Bundesliga last season, are preparing for a return to European competition in the UEFA Europa League.