Bayer Leverkusen Sporting Director, Simon Rolfes has clarified that Victor Boniface’s loan move was primarily aimed at helping the striker rediscover his natural rhythm following injury setbacks.
Rolfes explained that the club’s demanding schedule at the start of the season was a major reason to let Boniface leave on loan.
“In his first season he was unbelievable, his performance in his second season was also good.
“But in his second season he had problems with injuries and also last summer we spoke and agreed he needed more training to get in best shape again,” Rolfes said.
“And if you are playing every three days it’s difficult because the reality is you are not training anymore with the team.
“So, we had a feeling at the end of the preseason that it’s difficult to get into the best shape here with our number of games, so we decided together that it’s best for him to go on loan to get back to this level.”
Leverkusen sanctioned a temporary move to Werder Bremen, but Rolfes revealed that the player still experienced knee issues during his time away.
“While on loan at Werder Bremen it turned out there is still some problems with his knee. Unfortunately, he did a surgery which went really well.
“Now he is on his way to get his fitness his knee is much better. It’s a good situation now, he has to build his fitness again as it was the main reason we sent him on loan.”
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Boniface underwent surgery in January after sustaining the injury during a training session.
He resumed training in the first week of April, initially focusing on individual rehabilitation to rebuild fitness.
The Nigerian forward is now gradually transitioning into full team training and is hopeful of making his return to competitive action before the end of the season.
