Victor Boniface opens up on depression after brutal injury-hit year

Victor Boniface has spoken candidly about his mental health, admitting he is battling depression after a difficult, stop–start spell in his career.

The Bayer Leverkusen striker, currently on loan at Werder Bremen, shared a short but powerful message on X, writing: “Depression real die.”

Once seen as one of Europe’s brightest attacking talents following his breakout Bundesliga campaign, Boniface has since endured a relentless run of setbacks. Recurring groin and thigh problems were followed by a knee injury that required surgery in January 2026, limiting his minutes and rhythm. A proposed move to AC Milan collapsed over medical concerns, while another potential transfer to Saudi Arabia also fell through, compounding his frustration.

Off the pitch, Boniface survived a serious car accident in late 2024, and injuries forced him to miss major tournaments with Nigeria. His loan to Werder, meant to be a fresh start, instead brought fresh scrutiny, with questions raised publicly about his fitness and form.

By choosing to share his struggles so openly, Boniface has put a human face to the pressures elite footballers carry, reminding fans that performances on the pitch rarely tell the whole story.