Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has spoken highly of Victor Boniface's positive influence in the dressing room following his impressive brace against Hoffenheim.
The Nigeria international scored twice and provided an assist in his side's 4-1 away win at the PreZero Arena on Saturday.
Boniface found the net in the 30th and 75th minutes, marking his first goals of the new Bundesliga campaign. Earlier, he had set up Martin Terrier for Leverkusen's opening goal in the 17th minute.
While praising the striker's ability to create a great atmosphere among his teammates, Alonso also noted the occasional need to push the former Union Saint-Gilloise man to maintain focus on the pitch, a responsibility he embraces as coach.
Alonso reflects on balancing Boniface’s charisma with on-pitch concentration
In the aftermath of the game, Alonso, speaking to Bundesliga.com, emphasised Boniface's positive influence on his teammates, while also acknowledging the need to keep him focused during matches.
“He’s really loved by all his teammates, and he creates a great atmosphere. Sometimes, you need to push him to stay focused on the pitch, but that’s my job, and I try to do that,” the Spanish trainer said of the Nigerian forward after his impressive performance.
Boniface discusses viral dance and controversial celebration
Following his standout performance against Hoffenheim, Victor Boniface addressed the controversy surrounding his goal celebration.
After scoring his first goals of the season, he celebrated by pulling down his shorts to reveal white cycling briefs and performing a dance move that stirred debate.
Reflecting on the moment, Boniface explained, “Yeah, I'm really happy with my goals. This is my first goal of the season, so I'm really happy about it. The celebration is a viral dance in Nigeria, so I had to do it for a friend. He asked me to do it, so I did it for him,” the 23-year-old said as relayed by Bundesliga.com.
