Bayer Leverkusen coach Carles Martínez has delivered a clear message regarding striker Victor Boniface's situation. The 42-year-old Spaniard commented in a report by Bild Sport on the 25-year-old attacker's ongoing fitness issues and his current omission from the Europa League squad.
Victor Boniface continues to struggle with the aftermath of his knee injury. Carles Martínez told reporters: "He was not ready yet. He was in a lot of pain. His knee was not right, and physically he was still very far away." This statement shows that the Nigerian was not fit for action at the start of the season. Currently, Boniface trains daily and is making progress, but according to Martínez, he is not yet able to play in three competitions simultaneously. The coach hopes for a full recovery: "I hope that in the coming months or by the end of the season we can say he is at 100 percent."
The decision not to nominate Victor Boniface for the Europa League squad is directly linked to his fitness condition. As he is not fully loadable, the club is prioritizing his efforts for the Bundesliga. Martínez emphasized, however, that Boniface could still contribute to the European competition. A later re-nomination after the group stage remains an option if his condition improves significantly. Boniface has already managed a brief appearance against Elversberg (2:3), providing an assist, which is a positive sign.
Boniface's situation must be viewed in the context of Bayer Leverkusen's overall attack. With Patrik Schick and Christian Kofane, two other strikers are available competing for playing time. This internal competition allows the team to handle Boniface's return cautiously without coming under pressure. The current squad overview shows the personnel options in attack. At the same time, two other players, Kennet Eichhorn and Montrell Culbreath, are sidelined with injuries, as documented on the injuries list.
Patience with Boniface is a strategic decision for the long season. Bayer Leverkusen started the Bundesliga with a defeat and currently sits in 13th place with 0 points from one game. The team has scored two goals and conceded three, resulting in a negative goal difference of -1. In the table, they are three points behind leaders Bayern Munich. The next important match is the away game at currently third-placed FC Augsburg on September 12, 2026. The return of a fully fit Victor Boniface could provide an important boost in the second half of the season, especially during congested fixture periods.
