Bayer Leverkusen will be without Nigerian striker Victor Boniface for their highly anticipated Bundesliga match against Borussia Dortmund this weekend.
Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso confirmed the striker’s absence, citing an ongoing recovery from injury.
Speaking to Bild, Alonso expressed disappointment at Boniface’s delayed return to training, initially expected on January 2nd.
“We were hoping that he would be back in training on January 2nd. That’s a shame,” Alonso said. “We have to be patient so that he gets back to his best shape and we get a better feel for the injury. The most important thing now is that we support him.”
Xabi Alonso further revealed that Boniface’s recovery timeline remains uncertain, making it unlikely he will feature in the coming week.
“Normally, it’s not enough for next week,” Alonso added. “I don’t know. It’s better for the doctor to ask, but Boni needs a little more time, I can say that.”
Victor Boniface’s absence will be a significant blow as the team faces Dortmund in a high-stakes encounter.
The showdown between Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen will be played on Friday, January 10.