Werder Bremen manager Horst Steffen has openly criticised Victor Boniface’s performance in the club’s 1-1 draw against Mainz 05, expressing disappointment over the striker’s lack of sharpness and decision-making.

The 24-year-old Nigerian, currently on loan from Bayer Leverkusen, is yet to open his goal account for Die Grün-Weißen since joining on deadline day.

His time in Bremen has been marred by fitness struggles and injuries, prompting the club to introduce strict diet and physiotherapy routines to help him regain form.

Steffen: “He can do much better”

Speaking after the match at the MEWA Arena, Steffen admitted his frustration with Boniface’s output despite acknowledging the forward’s physical presence.

“There were one or two situations in which I thought, oh come on, he can solve that even better,” Steffen told Deutsch Stube.

“The fact that he asserts himself in duels is one reason why he is important for us. Boniface has taken steps forward, but he hasn’t arrived at his destination yet. It’s still a longer way.”

Demands for more attacking intent

The coach urged the Nigerian to be more decisive in attacking positions.

“He should claim balls and fight many battles because that is one of his strengths. Nevertheless, he must direct his actions more toward the box.”

Ongoing struggles

This is not Steffen’s first public criticism of Boniface. After the 0-3 defeat to Freiburg on Matchday 4, the coach faulted his positional discipline, saying the forward was “too much everywhere.”

Boniface’s ongoing struggles have seen his market value dip over the past year, raising concerns about his career if his form doesn’t improve soon.