Boniface, Schick Eye More Game Time Together Under Ten Hag at Leverkusen

Nigerian forward Victor Boniface and his Bayer Leverkusen strike partner, Patrik Schick, are eager to feature together more frequently in the upcoming season as the club embarks on a fresh chapter under new manager Erik ten Hag.

The duo expressed their hopes in separate interviews, both highlighting the potential of their partnership and their shared ambition to once again challenge Bayern Munich for the Bundesliga title in the 2025/26 campaign.

Boniface, whose future had been the subject of recent transfer speculation linking him with AC Milan and other European sides, reaffirmed his commitment to Leverkusen.

“I’m staying here, 100 per cent,” the 24-year-old told Bild, dismissing rumours of a move. Despite a dip in form last season, where he netted 11 times in 27 appearances after a blistering debut campaign with 21 goals and 10 assists, the Super Eagles striker is optimistic about forging a stronger connection with Schick on the pitch.

Reflecting on a memorable performance alongside the Czech forward, Boniface said, “Remember our 4-3 win in Stuttgart? That was one of the best games of the season, and we played it together. Patrik is not just a teammate, he’s a good friend. We push each other daily. Back in Belgium, I often played deeper or on the wings, and I’ve done that here too.”

Schick, speaking separately to kicker, echoed Boniface’s sentiments and expressed regret over the limited time the pair spent together on the field last season.

“We didn’t play together as much as I would have liked. Especially last season, I think that should have happened more often,” the Czech international said. “I can definitely see us working as a duo. We offer different strengths, and that mix could be really effective.”

Leverkusen, who claimed their historic first Bundesliga title in 2023/24, will kick off their new league campaign at home against Hoffenheim on August 23.