Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso confirmed on Friday that Nigeria striker Victor Boniface is expected to miss “a few games” after returning from international duty with a leg injury.
“He’s got a small injury in his thigh muscle, it’s a shame,” Alonso told reporters ahead of Saturday’s home clash with Heidenheim.
Nigerian media reported Boniface could miss the remainder of 2024 but Alonso was optimistic the striker would be back soon.
“He won’t be there tomorrow or against Salzburg (Champions League).
“We hope he will play again this year. We have to wait and see, but it’s not going to be six or eight weeks.”
Forward Patrik Schick, who has started just twice in the league this season, is expected to step up in the Nigerian’s absence.
“He is always ready — we don’t just need him now, but always.”
Defending champions Bayer Leverkusen, who went unbeaten in Germany last season on their way to a league and cup double, have had a slower start this season.
Currently in fourth place, they trail league leaders Bayern Munich by nine points. Alonso’s side has already dropped 13 points this season, one more than the 12 they conceded throughout the entire last campaign.
Victor Boniface has been a standout performer for Leverkusen, leading the team’s scoring efforts with six goals and an assist in 10 league appearances.