Bayer Leverkusen Sporting Director Simon Rolfes has shed light on the decision to send Victor Boniface out on loan to Werder Bremen, revealing that the move was aimed at helping the striker regain peak fitness after a challenging spell with injuries.
Boniface enjoyed a sensational debut campaign at Leverkusen, emerging as one of the standout forwards in the Bundesliga. The Nigerian international registered 21 goals and nine assists in 34 appearances, playing a pivotal role as the club secured a historic domestic double, winning both the Bundesliga and the DFB-Pokal without suffering a defeat.
However, his second season proved more difficult. A series of injury setbacks disrupted his rhythm, although he still managed to contribute 11 goals and one assist in 27 matches. He also found the net in the Super Cup, helping Leverkusen claim victory over Stuttgart.
At the start of the current campaign, Boniface was loaned to Werder Bremen in a bid to rediscover his best form. But his struggles continued, with a knee injury sustained in December ruling him out for an extended period.
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Speaking in an interview with Sports Journalist Oma Akatugba, Rolfes explained that the decision was made collaboratively, with the club prioritising the player’s long-term condition.
“He was key in the championship season. He was unbelievable in his performance and second season, he had a little bit of problem with injuries and also last summer,” Rolfes said.
“We spoke together. We said he needs more training to get in his best shape again. And if you’re playing every three days it’s difficult because the reality is that you’re not training anymore with a team.”
Rolfes added that Leverkusen’s demanding schedule made it difficult for Boniface to rebuild his fitness effectively.
“We had the feeling at the end of preseason that it’s difficult to get him in the best shape here with our rhythm of games. So we decided together that maybe it’s a good step for him to get back to his level.”
The situation took another unfortunate turn when Boniface required knee surgery during his loan spell. However, Rolfes confirmed that the procedure was successful and the striker is now on the path to recovery.
“It turned out he had some problems with his knee unfortunately, needed surgery which went really well, and now he’s on his way to get his fitness. His knee is much better. It’s a good situation, and now he has to build up his fitness again.”
Boniface has since returned to individual training at Bremen and will be hoping to finish the season strongly as he continues his recovery journey.
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