Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has explained the rationale behind Victor Boniface’s loan move to Werder Bremen, stating it was a strategic step to rebuild the striker’s fitness.
The Nigeria international was a standout performer during Leverkusen’s historic title-winning campaign, delivering 21 goals and nine assists in 34 appearances as the club secured a domestic double without defeat.
However, his game time slowed in the following season due to recurring injury setbacks.
Fitness over fixtures
Rolfes disclosed that the decision to send Boniface out on loan was jointly agreed, with a focus on restoring his physical condition rather than immediate output.
“He was key in the championship season. He was unbelievable in his performance and second season, he had a little bit of problem with injuries and also last summer,” Rolfes said.
“We spoke together. We said he needs more training to get in his best shape again. And if you’re playing every three days it’s difficult because the reality is that you’re not training anymore with a team.”
Leverkusen’s congested fixture schedule, driven by domestic and European commitments, limited the opportunity for structured recovery and conditioning work.
“We had the feeling at the end of preseason that it’s difficult to get him in the best shape here with our rhythm of games. So we decided together that maybe it’s a good step for him to get back to his level,” Rolfes added.
Setback but recovery underway
Boniface’s loan spell did not go as planned, with the forward suffering a knee injury that required surgery. Despite the setback, the club remains positive about his progress.
“It turned out he had some problems with his knee unfortunately, needed surgery which went really well, and now he’s on his way to get his fitness. His knee is much better. It’s a good situation, and now he has to build up his fitness again.”
The striker has since resumed individual training at Bremen as he works toward full match fitness.