The case of Bayer Leverkusen and Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface is one that has generated speculation.
Boniface was close to joining Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, but the deal didn’t go through.
The exit of Xabi Alonso as head coach sparked more rumors, especially among Bundesliga and Nigerian football fans.
New head coach Erik ten Hag came out three weeks ago to clear the air, stating the striker’s importance to his plans.
Boniface, in a recent interview with Sport Bild, affirmed his commitment to Leverkusen.
The player said he wants to help the team win trophies. Even when the road looks rough, he remains committed to the club:
“My future is here. From my perspective, it’s 100 percent clear that I’m staying. I still have three years left on my contract. I want to win titles with Bayer and have a great season.
Even when things weren’t going so well for me last season, I spoke to the sporting director, Simon Rolfes, and told him that I love it here.”
Boniface also spoke about his failed move to Saudi Arabia:
“The January transfer to Al-Nassr didn’t work out. It is what it is. I’m here.”
The 24-year-old also commented on his friends (players) departing the club, but believes that won’t stop them from competing, as they still have quality players and a great coach in Erik ten Hag:
“Of course I miss my friends Jeremie Frimpong, Jonathan Tah, and Florian Wirtz. Xabi Alonso and some of his assistants and several players have left. But we’ve also got some good players and a great coach in Erik ten Hag, who’s had a lot of success at Ajax and Manchester United.”
“There’s always movement in football,” Boniface concluded. “That’s normal. Some come, some go.” he added.
Boniface played in Erik ten Hag’s first match as Bayer Leverkusen manager, where they lost 5–1 to Flamengo U20.
Bayer Leverkusen will kick off their season in the DFB Pokal on the 15th of August against Sonnenhof Großaspach while Die Werkself will begin their league campaign eight days later.
