Victor Boniface has been handed a fresh opportunity to revive his role at Bayer 04 Leverkusen after head coach Carles Martínez explained what the Nigerian striker must do to earn more playing time, Footynaija reports.
Leverkusen’s attacking options have been reduced by injuries to Martin Terrier and Christian Kofane, potentially creating more opportunities for Boniface in the coming weeks.
However, the 25-year-old must prove he can meet the team’s physical demands consistently if he hopes to reclaim a regular starting position.
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Martínez addressed Boniface’s situation at a press conference ahead of Leverkusen’s Bundesliga home match against SC Freiburg, revealing that discussions are ongoing with the striker about improving his performance.
“We are working and talking with Boni,” the Spanish coach explained per LigaInsider.
The focus, according to Martínez, is on improving Boniface’s physical intensity, an area he believes is important to the forward’s progress.
Despite the growing need for attacking reinforcements, Martínez has made it clear that Boniface will not receive preferential treatment when it comes to selection.
The coach wants every player to maintain high standards in training, insisting that performances during the week will influence who gets the opportunity to start matches.
“What we want are eleven players performing at maximum intensity,” Martínez said.
The Leverkusen boss added that players must demonstrate the required commitment every day rather than waiting until match day to raise their level.
Boniface could initially feature in short spells of 15 or 20 minutes, but a starting role is also possible if he meets the coaching staff’s expectations.
The Nigerian forward, who has struggled with fitness issues, must therefore convince Martínez that he can deliver the necessary intensity consistently.
Boniface was a key member of the Bayer Leverkusen squad that powered to a first ever Bundesliga, DFB Pokal and DFL-Supercup treble triumph in 2024.
Following that success, he was named the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season and included in the Team of the Year.
