Xabi Alonso Praises Victor Boniface’s Versatility at Bayer Leverkusen

Bayer Leverkusen head coach, Xabi Alonso, has praised Super Eagles striker, Victor Boniface, for his ability to play in different positions when needed.

The 24-year-old Nigerian joined Leverkusen from Union Saint-Gilloise in summer 2023 and made history in his first season, helping the club win the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal while staying unbeaten.

Boniface’s Role in the Team

Although Boniface is a natural striker, he has also played on the wing or partnered Czech forward Patrik Schick in attack. Alonso is happy with his ability to adapt and perform well, even when playing out of position.

Ahead of Leverkusen’s DFB-Pokal semi-final against Arminia Bielefeld, Alonso spoke about using both strikers together.

“I liked both [Boniface and Schick] against Bochum, especially in the second half. Boni is back at a good level and can start. With him, we have flexibility; he can play as a centre-forward or as a winger.”

Leverkusen’s Title Ambitions

Alonso has previously discussed using both strikers in attack. After Leverkusen’s 4-3 win over Stuttgart, he said:

“We almost played with three strikers today. We wanted more presence in the box, and with their physical strength, they helped each other. It worked very well.”

If Leverkusen beat Bielefeld at the Schüco Arena, they will move closer to winning the DFB-Pokal for a second straight season.

On the other side of the semi-final, VfB Stuttgart face RB Leipzig, but Leverkusen remain the favourites to lift another domestic trophy this season.