Bayer Leverkusen captain Lukas Hradecky has lauded Victor Boniface for his impressive return to action following injury amid the disappointment of a failed big-money transfer.
The 24-year-old forward, returning from an injury that had kept him sidelined since November, was on the verge of a high-profile move to the Saudi Pro League, with Al Nassr reportedly reaching a €60 million agreement with Bayer Leverkusen.
Having successfully passed his medical, the Nigerian striker had also reached personal terms, which included a lucrative annual net salary of €15 million.
However, in a dramatic turn of events, Al Nassr pulled out of the deal at the last minute, opting instead to sign Aston Villa’s Colombian forward, Jhon Durán.
Hradecky praises Boniface, understands desire for Saudi transfer
In an interview with Tag 24, Hradecky spoke candidly about his teammate Victor Boniface's resilience following a series of setbacks, including the collapse of the transfer to Al Nassr.
“It’s remarkable how directly he came. That’s the best medicine you can give the club and yourself,” said Hradecky.
“He has the respect of all of us. He was often injured. He hasn’t earned that much money in his career. So, in part, probably economically, yes. It was a lot of money.”
Boniface marked his first start after recovering from injury and a collapsed transfer move by scoring in Bayer Leverkusen’s 3-1 victory over Hoffenheim on Sunday. The goal was his ninth of the season in 16 games across all competitions.
