Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface has admitted that the last year has been one of the most difficult periods of his career after finally ending his Bayer 04 Leverkusen goalscoring drought, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 25-year-old scored twice in Bayer Leverkusen's emphatic 7-0 pre-season victory over fifth-tier German side SF Baumberg on Saturday, marking his first goals for Die Werkself since March 2025.
Boniface came off the bench in the second half and immediately reminded supporters of his quality, showing his trademark movement inside the box to convert two low crosses.
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The Nigerian forward looked visibly relieved after finding the back of the net again following a frustrating spell that included injuries, failed transfers and a disappointing loan stint at Werder Bremen, where he failed to score a single goal
Speaking after the game, Boniface revealed how difficult the last twelve months have been.
“It was a difficult year for me. It is a good feeling to be back,” Boniface said in quotes revealed by Rheinische post.
“Of course, I'm happy that I'm training again, playing again and doing what I love again.”
The former Union Saint-Gilloise striker also admitted that he is still unsure how long it will take him to return to peak condition.
“I don't know. I can't say. For me, it is about continuing.”
Victor Boniface opens up on a difficult year
Boniface's struggles began after a lucrative switch to Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr collapsed in January 2025, while a proposed move to AC Milan also failed to materialise months later.
The Super Eagles star then endured an injury-hit loan spell at Werder Bremen, managing only limited appearances before returning to Leverkusen this summer.
However, the striker has spent recent weeks working extensively on his fitness, shedding weight and undergoing individual training sessions in a bid to rediscover his best form.
Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes also expressed delight at seeing Boniface back among the goals.
The former midfielder praised the Nigerian's improved condition and noted that the striker was already showing signs of regaining the explosiveness and dribbling ability that made him one of the Bundesliga's standout forwards during Bayer's historic double-winning campaign.
What's next for Victor Boniface at Bayer Leverkusen?
Despite his encouraging return, Boniface still faces a major battle for regular playing time next season.
Patrik Schick remains Bayer Leverkusen's first-choice striker after another prolific campaign, while highly-rated youngster Christian Kofane has also emerged as a strong competitor for a starting berth.
Boniface still has a contract with Leverkusen until 2028, but his long-term future remains uncertain amid strong competition in attack and previous interest from clubs abroad.
For now, though, the Nigerian's immediate focus appears clear. After a year filled with setbacks, Victor Boniface is simply happy to be back doing what he loves most, which is scoring goals
