Alonso gives Boniface update amid reports star striker could miss rest of 2024

After initial reports surfaced on Thursday that Victor Boniface had suffered a thigh injury during the international break, Sky Germany claimed on Friday that the Nigeria international will be out for the rest of 2024.

Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso wouldn't go as far as that at a press conference on Friday, but he did confirm that Boniface has suffered a thigh injury that will keep him out of the coming games.

“He will miss several games. We'll see how long [he'll be out]. It's a shame. He has a small injury in his thigh muscle. He will definitely be out tomorrow, against Salzburg [on Tuesday] and a bit more than that. We'll have to wait and see,” Xabi Alonso told reporters at his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday's Bundesliga game against Heidenheim.

Asked if Boniface is expected to play again in 2024, Alonso replied:

“It is too early to say. We hope he can play this year. But we have to see how the recovery goes. He won't be out for six to eight weeks.”

Boniface's absence will open up an opportunity for Patrik Schick, who started and scored when Leverkusen drew 1-1 with Bochum before the international break.

“It's not a new situation for us or for Patrik. He's always ready to play. He did well in the cup and in the Champions League against Brest, although he didn't score. He also did well against Bochum.”

“We always need Patrik, just like we need other players. Martin Terrier is back with the team and has trained well, so he's available. The next phase will be intense, but injuries happen in football and we need everyone."

In addition to Terrier, Edmond Tapsoba was passed fit, with the centre-back having shaken off a knock.

Nordi Mukiele and Jeanuel Belocian, however, are not quite ready to return to action, while long-term absentee Amine Adli also remains out.