Former Nigerian football wizard Austin Jay Jay Okocha has given his take on the festering uncertainty surrounding the futures of Super Eagles duo Victor Boniface and Victor Osimhen ahead of the 2025/2026 season, Footynaija.com reports.
Boniface endured a relatively underwhelming 2024/2025 campaign for Bayer Leverkusen, when compared to his debut season at the Bay Arena when he contributed massively to Die Werkself’s record-breaking domestic double.
A combination of injury setbacks and poor form saw the 25-year-old striker play a more diminished role last season. He was also on the verge of completing a move to Saudi Arabia in January but it collapsed at the last minute.
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Meanwhile, Osimhen enjoyed contrasting fortunes last term. The masked hitman produced his best ever single season tally while on loan at Galatasaray to help the Lions to their first domestic double in over five years.
Osimhen’s tally of 37 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions has seen him become a hot commodity on the transfer market but the Super Eagles marksman is taking his time to ponder his next move after burning all bridges with Napoli.
What Okocha said about Boniface and Osimhen
Weighing in on the situation of both players, Okocha acknowledged the impact Boniface’s injuries must’ve had on his less than ideal campaign before sharing his thoughts on what the future could hold.
“Of course, his second season was not as successful as his first, but we can’t forget the injury he had. We all know it takes time to come back from a serious injury,” Okocha told Sport 247.
“If he stays at Bayer Leverkusen, he must fight for his place and impress the new manager, but if he decides to leave, we hope it’s to a club that’s a better fit for his career.”
On Osimhen’s imminent move, the former Paris Saint-Germain forward continued: “The decision should be his. Whether it goes well or not, he must own it.
“I don’t believe in deciding someone’s future. He should choose what’s best for him and his family.”
Whether Boniface will remain at Bayer Leverkusen next season and where Osimhen will end up next remains uncertain for now. Both players are currently enjoying their end of season holidays in Nigeria.
