Werder Bremen Managing Director of Professional Football Clemens Fritz has revealed that the Bundesliga club were aware of Victor Boniface’s knee problem before his loan move to the club last season.
Boniface endured a difficult campaign with the German club, with recurring injuries affecting his rhythm and limiting his ability to make a consistent impact.
The Nigeria international featured in just 11 matches across all competitions, providing two assists as Werder Bremen narrowly secured their Bundesliga status.
Despite the injury concerns surrounding the striker, Fritz admitted that the club considered the deal a manageable risk because of their limited financial resources and the need to strengthen their attacking options.
“Not so much. We still wanted a striker at the time and had very limited financial resources. Victor was available on short notice. We saw it as an opportunity. The financial risk was manageable,” Fritz said via Stern.
“Of course, we were aware of the knee issue. But nobody could have foreseen that he would get injured again and need surgery.”
The Bremen chief also praised Boniface’s character during his time at the club, stressing that the Nigerian forward remained professional despite his struggles with injuries.
“Victor is a sensible lad who didn't cause any trouble in our locker room. That's why I can't say I regret it. We have to be willing to take a certain amount of risk.”
Upon his return to the BayArena, Boniface will now be keen to put his difficult spell behind him and rediscover his best form for Leverkusen this campaign.
Adeyemi Adewale
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