Victor Boniface’s Bundesliga campaign has yet to ignite, but Werder Bremen legend Ailton Gonçalves insists the Nigerian striker is close to turning his season around despite the criticism surrounding his slow start.
Boniface, on loan from Bayer Leverkusen, has struggled to hit his usual scoring rhythm, registering two assists in ten league appearances without finding the back of the net. His barren spell has sparked scrutiny, fuelled by the lofty expectations that greeted his arrival at the Weserstadion.
Ailton: “I trust him… he’ll score again.”
However, Ailton one of the club’s most iconic forwards believes Boniface has the talent and mentality to overcome his current slump.
“I trust him,” the Brazilian told Bild.
“He won’t have a career at Werder like mine, but I absolutely believe he can play a good role here. He’ll score a few more goals. Maybe even one in the derby.”
Ailton drew similarities to his own rocky beginnings in Bremen, where he also faced harsh criticism about his form and weight before eventually becoming a club legend.
“There’s a lot of talk about his lack of form and his weight,” he admitted.
“If he scores, the fans and his teammates will believe in him again. A positive result is key.”
Ailton recalls his own struggles
Reflecting on his early days in Germany, Ailton said:
“My first six months were very difficult until Thomas Schaaf took over in May 1999. I didn’t understand the system and I was carrying a few extra kilos.”
He stressed that while Boniface must put in the work to rediscover his sharpness, the dressing room also has a role to play.
“He has to train hard now, and his teammates have to help him. But in the end, only he himself can score the goal.”
Boniface still trusted by Nigeria
Despite his club struggles, the 24-year-old has been named in Nigeria’s provisional squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, proof that national team selectors still have faith in his ability.
As Werder Bremen gears up for a heated derby against Hamburger SV, all eyes will be on Boniface to see whether this is the moment he finally breaks his drought and begins his long-awaited resurgence.
