By Jelili Gbadamosi
Carles Martinez, Bayer Leverkusen manager has revealed that Victor Boniface’s ongoing knee problems were responsible for the Nigerian striker’s omission from the club’s UEFA Europa League squad.
Boniface, who impressed during Leverkusen’s pre-season preparations after a difficult 2025/2026 campaign on loan at Werder Bremen, was left out of the squad despite showing signs of improvement.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s Bundesliga clash with Union Berlin, Martinez said Boniface was not fully fit when the club began preparations for the new season.
The manager explained that the 25-year-old forward was still experiencing pain in his knee and was physically behind the rest of the squad, making his inclusion in the Europa League squad premature.
However, Martinez said the situation had improved considerably, noting that Boniface’s knee was responding better and that the club remained hopeful about his recovery.
He described the Nigerian as a talented player who deserves a better season and assured him of the club’s support throughout his rehabilitation and development.
Martinez added that Boniface remained in his plans, particularly in matches where Leverkusen needed an additional attacking threat, and suggested that the striker could be added to the club’s European squad if his fitness improves.
The manager expressed hope that Boniface would eventually return to full fitness and rediscover his best form during the 2026/2027 season.
