The Nigerian international has been an instant hit in Germany and is already drawing comparisons with Africa’s most valuable player
Former Belgium coach Marc Wilmots has thrown his weight behind Bayer Leverkusen’s rising star, Victor Boniface, as the potential successor to follow in the footsteps of Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and become Nigeria’s next €100 million sensation, Soccernet.ng reports.
After making a notable mark at Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise, the 22-year-old Boniface switched to Bayer Leverkusen in the summer, aiming to further his football development in Germany.
His time with the Bundesliga outfit has been nothing short of exceptional, as he has notched an impressive tally of six goals and three assists in just six appearances across various competitions since his arrival.
In recognition of his outstanding start in Germany, Boniface secured both the Bundesliga’s Rookie of the Month and Player of the Month awards for August, marking a remarkable debut month for the young striker.
Wilmots, who closely observed Boniface during his time in Belgium, did not hide his admiration. He told Kicker:
“I saw Boniface live ten times in Belgium and immediately said: What kind of striker is that?! He has everything.”
The former Belgium coach acknowledged that there is still room for improvement in Boniface’s left foot and heading abilities but emphasized that these are minor concerns.
He further declared, “I quickly said that he is the best striker in the Belgian league and can move to Germany or even England. Leverkusen will have a lot of fun with him.”
When questioned about the possibility of Boniface commanding a €100 million price tag in the future, Wilmots expressed his confidence, remarking,
“Of course, sure. He is young. If you see his potential – only a few strikers have that. He has many good qualities.
“If he increases his quota and scores 15 to 20 goals, he has the opportunity to play for a top club in the Premier League. His goal must be to move to one of the top six there in two or three years.”
Nigeria have a rich history of producing exceptional football talent, including icons like Austin Okocha, Nwankwo Kanu, Mikel Obi, Victor Moses, and Vincent Enyeama.
However, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen stands alone as the first and only Nigerian player to command a staggering €100 million valuation.
Osimhen’s historic transfer from Lille to Napoli in 2020 made him the most expensive African transfer in history, a record he is poised to shatter once more when he departs Napoli.
