'What was he thinking?' - Ex-Bundesliga coach blasts Alonso for starting Tella over Boniface

Published: February 18, 2025

Former Bundesliga manager Peter Neururer has criticized Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso for his decision to start Nathan Tella ahead of recognized strikers Victor Boniface and Patrick Schick in their goalless draw against Bayern Munich last Saturday.

Alonso opted to deploy Tella alongside Florian Wirtz in attack at the BayArena, leaving both Boniface and Schick on the bench.

While Schick was introduced late in the game, Boniface remained unused, a decision that drew criticism from Neururer.

Despite acknowledging Leverkusen's tactical display, the former VfL Bochum manager questioned Alonso's reliance on Tella, pointing to his missed opportunities in front of goal.

"An outstandingly good game, but only from one side. Because what Leverkusen conjured up was football at its finest," Neururer wrote in his column for Wettfreunde.net.

"What was Alonso thinking? He (Tella) had worked outstandingly against the ball at the front, but also missed several great chances. He remains with a meager goal this season."

Neururer also expressed frustration over the timing of Alonso's substitutions, arguing that Leverkusen needed a more clinical presence in attack.

"I need people like Boniface, like Schick, who are dangerous in front of goal. I not only need the impulses that come from behind, but also those who then put these balls in," he added.

Tella has been a regular fixture under Alonso this season, featuring in 30 matches across all competitions, with three goals and three assists to his name.

The 25-year-old would hope his recent form could earn him a call-up to the Super Eagles squad for Nigeria's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: bayer04.de

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com