Rolfes: Failed Saudi move unsettled Boniface

Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has admitted that Victor Boniface’s aborted transfer to Saudi Arabia unsettled the striker and affected his mindset.

Speaking candidly, Rolfes explained that the uncertainty around the lucrative move created psychological strain.

‘It wasn’t easy… it affected him,’ he said, noting that such situations are difficult for players to handle when expectations are built up and then collapse.

The Nigerian forward had come close to leaving for the Middle East, but the deal fell apart late in negotiations.

Rolfes revealed he spoke directly with Boniface afterwards to offer support and help him refocus. ‘We had a conversation… he came back strong,’ he stressed.