Boniface handed chance to revive Leverkusen career after Kofane setback

Still working to rediscover his best form, Victor Boniface has been limited to just five minutes of football for Bayer Leverkusen so far this season.

However, with Christian Kofane ruled out for the coming weeks, the Nigerian forward could have an opportunity to play a bigger role, head coach Carles Martínez said at a press conference on Friday.

“What is certain is that, with Kofane out, that spot is available. Of course, we have Patrik [Schick], and we’re very happy with him, but we will also need other players because we have a lot of minutes to play in the coming weeks, and everyone will be important,” Martínez said.

Leverkusen face a packed schedule, with matches in the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and Champions League. Boniface is ineligible to play in Europe until the end of January 2027 but could provide cover in the league and in the cup.

“Boni will certainly be an option. We will obviously see how he is doing, as he hasn’t played all that much. We have players I’m completely confident in: if Patrik needs a rest or we have to make a change for any reason, we will have options,” said Martinez.

Boniface played a key role in Leverkusen’s success under Xabi Alonso, helping Die Werkself secure the domestic double. However, recurring injuries, particularly knee problems, have hampered his progress since then.

“He trains fully every day. Of course, he isn’t playing much at the moment, as you can see – he has only played a few minutes in one match, and it hasn’t been possible for him to be in the squad for European games. That’s simply the situation at the moment," Martinez said.

“Boni is here, and his knee is fine. We’ll see how things develop. The same applies to tomorrow: if everything goes well, he will be in the squad, and if we need him, he is obviously an important player because he can help us score goals and contribute in other ways."

Leverkusen’s next match is Saturday's Bundesliga clash with Mainz.