Victor Boniface faces tough competition for starting spot at Bayer Leverkusen
Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso has emphasized that Victor Boniface will need to prove himself again when fully fit to reclaim his starting spot ahead of Patrik Schick. The Super Eagles striker has been in impressive form since joining from Royale Union SG, scoring six goals in his first 10 games this season. However, Boniface’s recent injury has sidelined him, and Schick has stepped up in his absence, continuing his fine form with goals.
Speaking on the competition between the two strikers, Alonso was asked about Boniface’s chances of returning to the starting lineup. The Spanish coach explained that player selection would depend on individual performances, both in training and during matches.
“I have difficulty in choosing players for all the positions,” Alonso said. “I like to have competition for places. What we want is for everyone to fight for their position, get better, and help the team. We will have many games, so all players will have their moments.”
He continued, “But the most important thing is that Patrik Schick is in good form, and we want Boniface to be in good form as well. We want him fully fit, to forget about his injuries, and to be working hard on the pitch, scoring goals.”
Alonso made it clear that both Boniface and Schick will have the chance to prove their worth, stating, “Boniface and Schick decide who plays because the one who deserves it and proves himself usually gets the chance.”
With Schick in red-hot form and Boniface fighting to return from injury, the battle for a starting place at Leverkusen is heating up. It remains to be seen who will be the first-choice striker once Boniface regains full fitness.
