Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has downplayed striker Victor Boniface’s heated reaction after being substituted during their recent 2-2 draw against Werder Bremen. Boniface, who recently made a comeback just six days after a serious car accident, scored an important goal but was visibly frustrated when he was replaced by Patrik Schick in the 70th minute.

The Nigerian striker exchanged words with Alonso, expressing his disappointment at the decision, but Alonso saw the response as a sign of the player’s passion and drive. “Yes, but that’s normal; all players want to keep going. He did well and scored a goal, but we needed a bit more energy,” the coach explained to Kicker.

Alonso praised Boniface’s determination to play despite his recent accident and noted how critical the 23-year-old is to Leverkusen’s attack. “He scored a goal. Hopefully, the car accident is no longer an issue, and we can talk about football,” the coach said. So far this season, Boniface has made eleven appearances across all competitions, scoring eight goals and assisting once.