Victor Boniface, the Nigerian international, secured a last-minute loan transfer to Werder Bremen this summer, according to Soccernet.ng.
Earlier attempts to join Serie A powerhouse AC Milan collapsed after he reportedly did not pass the medical examination.
Despite the setback, Boniface remained unfazed.
“When the Milan deal fell through, I was just hanging out on TikTok with my friends,” he revealed during a recent Bundesliga press conference. “There’s a lot going on behind the scenes that fans don’t see. Honestly, I really enjoy playing in Germany. I love it here.”
After playing a pivotal role in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic unbeaten Bundesliga title run in the 2023/24 season under coach Xabi Alonso, Boniface found himself sidelined following the arrival of new manager Erik ten Hag.
With limited opportunities behind established forwards Patrik Schick and Christian Koffi, Boniface opted for a loan move to Werder Bremen-a club with less prestige but promising prospects.
Interestingly, Ten Hag was dismissed just hours into the new season, adding to the turbulent backdrop of Boniface’s career shift.
“I missed nearly 20 matches but still managed to score 8 goals, making me Leverkusen’s second top scorer. Yet, they labeled it a poor season-I’m still trying to wrap my head around that,” Boniface expressed with disbelief.
Adjusting to Life at Werder Bremen
Since joining Bremen, Boniface has been gradually finding his rhythm. Although he has yet to open his goal account, his overall influence on the pitch is growing, highlighted by an assist and increasing involvement in the team’s attacking play.
“As a kid, my dream was simply to play football in Europe, even if it meant earning just 300 euros. To be where I am now is a blessing I never imagined,” he reflected.
“I’ve overcome hardships and injuries that could have ended my career, so I’m truly thankful,” he added.
Despite some public criticism from his coach regarding his fitness and positioning, Boniface maintains that not all media reports accurately reflect his situation.
German outlets have often described his social media activity as puzzling. Bild labeled his posts “cryptic,” while others found them perplexing.
One of his most talked-about, now-deleted posts read: “If you spend too much money on many women, you won’t get anywhere in life. Stick to one or two, maybe three, or four if you’re going through a lot.”
“My captions are just jokes-they don’t harm or target anyone. If I insulted someone, that would be different,” Boniface clarified.
“I post for fun and then move on. If the media blows it out of proportion, that’s their choice. My posts aren’t meant to offend anyone-I can’t please everyone.”
He also mentioned attempts to reduce his social media presence, which sparked speculation. “When I stopped posting, people thought I was going through something. But when I post, they complain too.”
A Strong Nigerian Presence at Werder Bremen
Werder Bremen boasts one of the Bundesliga’s most Nigerian-influenced squads.
Alongside Boniface, the team features Nigerian international defender Felix Agu and Nigeria-eligible forward Justin Njinmah. Additionally, Swiss international Isaac Osas Schmidt shares Edo roots with Boniface.
“They are consummate professionals,” Boniface praised his Nigerian teammates.
He added, “I love Germany. I had offers from England before joining Bremen, but I chose to stay here. It’s been a great experience, and I hope to deliver what the fans are eagerly waiting for soon.”
Supporters at Bremen are optimistic that Boniface will fulfill the potential that earned him the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season award less than two years ago, cementing his status as one of the league’s brightest talents.
