Werder Bremen manager Daniel Thioune says Victor Boniface could make a long-awaited return to action this weekend, offering a timely boost ahead of a decisive Bundesliga clash with Hamburger SV, Footynaija reports.
The Nigerian forward has not featured since December 2025 after suffering a serious knee injury involving cartilage damage, an issue that eventually required surgery in January. At the time, the setback was expected to keep him out for the rest of the season. However, Boniface has made steady progress in recent weeks, returning to individual training earlier this month after completing part of his rehabilitation with parent club Bayer Leverkusen.
Victor Boniface has come under criticism for his physical condition after rejoining full training with Werder Bremen pic.twitter.com/RvDOFasFS7
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Speaking ahead of Saturday’s Nordderby, Thioune offered cautious optimism about the striker’s condition, suggesting a return to competitive action is now within reach.
“We’re not ruling any player out, not even Victor. If we see an opportunity and he adapts, then it’s possible he’ll return to competitive action. I’m also reserving the right to assess his participation in tomorrow’s final training session,” the Bremen coach said.
Despite that encouragement, Thioune made clear that Boniface is unlikely to play a major role if he is involved. After more than four months on the sidelines, the striker is still building match fitness and is not yet ready for extended minutes. Instead, he could be considered as a substitute option, potentially offering fresh energy late in the game.
The timing could be significant. Bremen head into the meeting with Hamburg locked in a tense relegation battle, sitting just above the drop zone and in urgent need of points. Their recent form has been poor, with three defeats in their last four matches, increasing the pressure on Thioune’s side.
Hamburg, meanwhile, have their own struggles, particularly in defence, having gone several games without a clean sheet. That vulnerability could present an opportunity for Bremen, especially if Boniface is able to make even a brief impact on his return.
