Leverkusen’s Coach Stands Up for Boniface’s Conduct on the Pitch

Leverkusen’s Manager Defends Striker Boniface After Substitution Debacle

Responding to a heated exchange between Victor Boniface and manager Xabi Alonso following yesterday’s 2-2 draw against Werder Bremen, the team’s gaffer has spoken out in defense of the 23-year-old Nigerian international.

Victor Boniface’s second-half substitution sparked controversy, as he had earlier netted Leverkusen’s opening goal. His removal from the game, 20 minutes from the end, left him visibly agitated, and he was seen in a heated discussion with Alonso as he made his way to the bench.

Manager Xabi Alonso acknowledged the player’s understandable frustration, acknowledging that it’s not uncommon for players to want to continue playing, especially when they feel they’re contributing positively to the team’s efforts.

“It’s perfectly natural for players to feel that way,” he stated in an interview. “Victor played a great game, scoring a goal and giving his all, but we needed to inject a bit more energy into the match. It wasn’t about denying him the opportunity to continue, but rather to bring in some fresh legs and a different dynamic to the game.”

In light of the recent car accident Victor Boniface was involved in, there were concerns about his fitness. However, Alonso emphasized that the day’s training session had convinced him to start Boniface, and the player’s goal was a testament to his ability to bounce back from setbacks. “I’m glad he was able to start the game and score a goal, and I hope the impact of the car accident is now behind him, allowing him to focus solely on his contributions to the team,” he said.

This season, Victor Boniface has been in exceptional form, notching eight goals and one assist in 11 appearances across all competitions, solidifying his status as a crucial player for Leverkusen.