Werder Bremen manager Horst Steffen has expressed the need for Nigerian forward Victor Boniface to regain top form, with the striker still searching for his breakthrough moment since joining the club on loan.
Boniface had been close to sealing a move to AC Milan in the summer, but when that transfer collapsed, he instead secured a temporary switch to Bremen. So far, however, the move has not yet reignited his spark, as all three of his appearances have come as a substitute.
The coach admitted that the 23-year-old is progressing but still not at the sharpest level, largely due to limited playing minutes.
“You can already see that he is getting better and better in his stride,” Horst said via Kicker.
“He scored a goal against Bayern Munich, but it was unfortunately offside. But he’ll keep on trying. It’s clear, we need him and have to get him into the shape to be at his best. In my opinion, he’s just not there yet. Accordingly, we’re continuing to work on it. We’re very happy with it – and he knows it.”
The striker’s struggles are not entirely surprising, considering the transition from Bayer Leverkusen—where he had already established himself—to a new environment in Bremen. Loan moves can be difficult for players, as they must adapt quickly to new teammates, new tactics, and often, a different role than the one they previously thrived in. For Boniface, who relies heavily on confidence and rhythm, the stop-start nature of his season so far has slowed his progress.
Still, his talent and potential are not in doubt. At Leverkusen, the Nigerian forward proved himself to be a reliable scorer despite battling injuries. His tally of 22 goals in 42 league appearances highlights his finishing ability and eye for goal. Those numbers also serve as a reminder to Bremen fans and coaching staff that, once fit and in form, Boniface is capable of delivering consistently at the highest level.
For now, the focus remains on gradually building his match sharpness and fitness. Bremen’s attack has lacked a consistent focal point, and Steffen clearly sees Boniface as a player who can provide that edge once he finds his rhythm. With a long season ahead, opportunities will surely come, and the Nigerian will be eager to make his mark.
Boniface’s future remains uncertain, with the option of returning to Bayer Leverkusen or considering a new challenge once his loan spell concludes. Before leaving Leverkusen, he had shown great promise despite injury setbacks, netting 22 times in 42 league matches across two seasons. What happens next will largely depend on how quickly he can rediscover the spark that made him one of the Bundesliga’s most exciting young forwards.
