Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso shared his reasons for selecting 17-year-old Francis Onyeka in the Champions League squad ahead of their upcoming clash against Stade Brest, as reported by Sportblog247.com. The young forward received the call following the absence of Nigerian striker Victor Boniface, who was sidelined with a minor injury.

Alonso spoke highly of Onyeka, a versatile left-footed player standing at 6’1” and a product of Leverkusen’s youth academy. “He is a player we have high hopes for. He has good dynamism, listens well, and is very attentive. But we also have to be patient,” Alonso stated in an interview with Kicker. Alonso emphasized his desire for Onyeka to gain valuable experience: “I want him to feel and experience what it means to play in the Champions League. Boni isn’t here, so we needed someone else.”

A standout for Germany’s U-17 team, Onyeka, scored five goals in six matches during European Championship qualifiers, showcasing his promising talent. Though he shares Boniface’s Nigerian heritage, Onyeka is expected to commit his international career to Germany.