Boniface ‘first’ to resume Leverkusen training

As announced by the club’s official X handle, Bayer Leverkusen forward, Victor Boniface, was the first player to report for their pre-season training ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Boniface returned to his parent club after spending the off-season in Nigeria, following a loan spell at Werder Bremen.

“No time to waste! Na Victor carry first report for training. Welcome back, Boniface,” the club posted on X on Thursday.

After undergoing fitness assessments at the club’s training facilities, the Nigerian striker will join his teammates for their pre-season training camp in Blankenhain, near Erfurt, Germany, from August 1 to 7.

Boniface enjoyed a sensational debut season after joining Bayer Leverkusen from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise in the summer of 2023. He scored 21 goals and provided nine assists in 34 appearances, helping Xabi Alonso’s side secure their first Bundesliga title without losing a match.

He also won four Bundesliga Rookie of the Month awards during that outstanding campaign.

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However, injuries disrupted his progress the following season as he struggled to maintain those standards.

Boniface managed 11 goals and one assist in 27 appearances during the 2024/25 campaign, while concerns over his recurring knee problems began to surface.

His difficulties were compounded by two failed transfer moves, first to Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr and later to AC Milan, with medical concerns reportedly contributing to both deals collapsing.

The striker’s fortunes worsened after a surprise loan move to Werder Bremen, where injuries and fitness issues severely hampered his performances. Boniface failed to score in 11 appearances as he battled persistent knee problems and struggled to regain full fitness.

As he returns to Leverkusen, sporting director Simon Rolfes has expressed confidence that the Nigerian can rediscover his best form ahead of the new season.

Leverkusen will begin their 2026/27 Bundesliga campaign on August 29 with an away trip to newly promoted SV Elversberg.