Bayer Leverkusen head coach, Xabi Alonso, has sent a message through renowned Nigerian football journalist, Oma Akatugba, to assure Nigerian fans of his satisfaction with the performance of Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface.
In the final pre-match press conference before the Europa League final between Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen, Akatugba asked Alonso about the limited playing time for Boniface since his return from injury. Boniface, who sustained an injury during AFCON preparations, last played for Leverkusen in a 4-0 win over Bochum on December 12, 2023. Before his injury, he was a regular starter, scoring many goals and winning multiple Player of the Month awards. After undergoing surgery for an adductor muscle injury in January, Boniface returned three months later but has had limited starts.
Akatugba asked Alonso: “Victor Boniface has started just 2 games since returning from injury, and Nigerian fans on Twitter (Now X) frequently ask me why he hasn’t been starting as many games for Bayer Leverkusen. Is there something you’d like to explain to Nigerians?”
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Alonso responded: “It’s a good question. After returning from injury, it takes time, and of course, we have a wide squad with many players who all want to be on the pitch. I like when someone isn’t playing and shows the character to prove me wrong. But I’m happy with Boniface. His impact this year has been significant, and we are helping him get back on track. So, tell your people in Nigeria that we are happy with him.”
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This assurance from Xabi Alonso highlights the coach’s confidence in Boniface’s abilities and his ongoing recovery process, offering hope to Nigerian fans eagerly awaiting the striker’s full return to form.
