Bayer Leverkusen manager, Xabi Alonso has shared insights into the efforts he makes to ensure Nigerian forward Victor Boniface remains focused on football.

Boniface made a rapid rise to stardom in the Bundesliga last season.

He scored 14 goals and provided nine assists in 23 league appearances, helping Leverkusen clinch their first-ever Bundesliga title.

The 23 year-old striker was awarded the Rookie of the Year award and a spot in the Bundesliga Team of the Season.

This season, Boniface has already continued his goal-scoring run, netting an brace and assisting in Bayer’s 4-1 victory over Hoffenheim.

Xabi Alonso noted Boniface’s cheerful personality, noting how well-liked he is by his teammates but faces the challenge of keeping Boniface focused solely on football.

Victor Boniface and Xabi Alonso during the DFL Supercup 2024 match between Bayer 04 Leverkusen and VfB Stuttgart. (Photo by Jan Fromme – firo sportphoto/Getty Images)

“All the teammates really like him. Sometimes you have to force him to focus only on football, but that’s my job, that’s what I’m trying to do.”

Boniface will be crucial for Bayer Leverkusen in their upcoming Champions League clash against Feyenoord on Wednesday, with both teams enjoying strong starts to their respective seasons.

Bayer has secured six points from their first three Bundesliga matches, while Feyenoord remains unbeaten in the Eredivisie.