Boniface, Schick Eager for New Strike Partnership Under Ten Hag at Leverkusen
As Bayer Leverkusen gears up for the 2025/26 Bundesliga season under newly appointed manager Erik Ten Hag, forwards Victor Boniface and Patrik Schick have expressed enthusiasm about forming a stronger on-field partnership.
Speaking in separate interviews with German media, both strikers highlighted their desire to feature together more regularly in the new campaign, aiming to help Leverkusen mount another title challenge following their historic Bundesliga triumph in 2023/24.
Boniface, who has been linked with a move away from the BayArena, put transfer rumours to rest, affirming his commitment to the club. “I’m 100 per cent staying,” the Nigerian international told Bild, despite reported interest from AC Milan and several European sides.
After a standout debut season where he netted 21 goals and provided 10 assists in 34 appearances, Boniface’s influence dipped last term, scoring 11 goals in 27 matches and eventually losing his starting role to Schick. Yet, the 24-year-old believes his chemistry with the Czech striker holds great potential.
“Remember our 4-3 win in Stuttgart? That was one of our best games,” Boniface recalled. “Patrik is a great friend and we push each other daily. I’ve played deeper or on the wing before, and I’m open to doing so again.”
Schick, in an interview with kicker, echoed the sentiment, stating that the pair could form a productive duo under Ten Hag’s guidance.
“We didn’t get many chances to play together last season,” Schick said. “But I believe our skill sets complement each other, and I see the potential in this combination.”
Leverkusen, who made history by clinching their first Bundesliga title just two seasons ago, will kick off their new campaign at home against Hoffenheim on August 23.
