Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has revealed the efforts he puts in to ensure Nigerian forward Victor Boniface stays focused on football, despite the player’s light-hearted nature, Soccernet.ng reports.
Boniface, one of Nigeria’s brightest attacking talents in Europe, took the Bundesliga by storm last season.
The 23-year-old scored 14 goals and contributed nine assists in just 23 league appearances, playing a pivotal role in helping Bayer Leverkusen clinch their first-ever Bundesliga title.
His remarkable performances earned him the prestigious Rookie of the Year award and a spot in the Bundesliga Team of the Season.
Boniface has started the new season in a similar fashion, netting twice and providing an assist in Bayer’s dominant 4-1 victory over Hoffenheim.
However, his impact extends beyond the pitch, particularly on social media. Known for his comedic personality, Boniface frequently posts funny memes and engages in light-hearted banter on Twitter.
He has even appeared in comedy skits and took part in a roasting challenge on YouTube.
https://twitter.com/boniface_jrn/status/1835945813689663813
Xabi Alonso admits that Boniface’s jovial character often shines through in training, making him a popular figure among his teammates.
But the former Liverpool midfielder admits he has to do more to keep the attention of the Super Eagles star on club targets.
“All the teammates really like him, the guy creates a great atmosphere. Sometimes you have to force him to focus only on football, but that’s my job, that’s what I’m trying to do,” Alonso said of the striker after his recent standout performance, as per Efotbal.
Boniface will be a key player when Bayer Leverkusen face Feyenoord in their upcoming Champions League clash.
The Dutch side has made an unbeaten start to the Eredivisie season, while Bayer, the reigning Bundesliga champions, have taken six points from their first three matches.
This marks the first competitive meeting between the two clubs since their UEFA Cup encounter in 1987.
