Bayer Leverkusen’s Simon Rolfes urges Victor Boniface to stay patient amid January transfer speculation

Simon Rolfes says Victor Boniface can earn more opportunities at Bayer Leverkusen if he maintains his fitness and continues to work hard, despite reports that the striker wants to leave the club in January.

Sky Sports reports that the Nigeria international has expressed a desire to move on when the transfer window reopens. Boniface has made just one league appearance for the former Bundesliga champions this season and has provided one assist.

His limited involvement has prompted questions about his future at Leverkusen, but managing director Rolfes has played down the possibility of an imminent departure.

“That doesn’t change Boni’s situation. He needs to stay fit, keep at it and improve, then his opportunity will arise. I’m not worried,” Rolfes was quoted as saying by transfermarkt.

Rolfes also believes Boniface’s outlook has improved, both on and off the pitch, as he continues to compete for a place in the team.

“He has been in a much better mood, also mentally, and sees many more perspectives again,” he said.

The Leverkusen director acknowledged that Boniface’s work when pressing and defending was not a key strength during the previous period in which he scored regularly. However, he said the club’s priority was to improve the striker’s fitness so that he could make a greater impact in attack.

“Starting and working against the ball was not his core competency when he played and scored. He has other qualities. We want to raise his fitness level as much as possible so that he can better demonstrate the qualities he undoubtedly possesses,” Rolfes added.

Boniface spent last season on loan at fellow Bundesliga club Werder Bremen. He has now returned to Leverkusen, where he is competing for playing time but has so far featured only once in the league this campaign.

Rolfes’ comments indicate that the club remains prepared to give the striker further opportunities if he can improve his fitness and maintain his effort in training.