Victor Boniface, the rising star of the Super Eagles, has clinched the prestigious title of German Bundesliga Rookie of the Season.
The Nigerian sensation surpassed competitors including Xavi from RB Leipzig, Ian Maatsen from Borussia Dortmund, and TSG Hoffenheim’s Maximillian Beier to secure the coveted award.
Announcing the winner via the X app, the award organisers declared, “Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface takes home the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season award from Sorare after making an instant impact on the Bundesliga, in which he won 4 Rookie of the Month trophies in a row.”
Throughout the 2023–24 season, the Bundesliga has been lauding the league’s brightest young talents with the monthly Rookie of the Month Award, in partnership with Sorare. With Boniface claiming the accolade for four consecutive months, it comes as no surprise that he has been crowned the overall winner, marking a truly remarkable campaign.
Earning the Rookie of the Month distinction for August, September, October, and November, Boniface swiftly made his mark following his summer transfer to Leverkusen from Belgian outfit Union Saint-Gilloise.
During his reign as Rookie of the Month, the striker dazzled with seven goals and five assists in 12 Bundesliga appearances. Additionally, he made his senior debut for Nigeria in September and continued his stellar performance in December, notching three more goals and two assists in just four league outings.
However, Boniface faced adversity in January when a muscle injury sidelined him until April, causing him to miss the Africa Cup of Nations. Yet, the tenacious 23-year-old made a triumphant return, scoring a goal and setting up another upon his comeback.
His impactful contributions in front of goal have been key in Bayer Leverkusen’s Bundesliga triumph, marking their maiden title victory, and propelling them towards a potential treble, including the DFB Cup and UEFA Europa League. Looking ahead, Boniface’s prowess will be unleashed on opponents in the UEFA Champions League next season.