Rolfes confirms Hofmann's Europa League call as Boniface misses out at Leverkusen

Following Martin Terrier's injury, Bayer Leverkusen have opted to bring Jonas Hofmann into their Europa League squad as the Frenchman's replacement — a decision that leaves Victor Boniface out of the travelling party for Thursday's trip to face OFI in Crete.

Sporting managing director Simon Rolfes explained the call ahead of the team's departure for Crete, pointing to Hofmann's flexibility as the deciding factor.

“Jonas is a very versatile player who can play in different positions. I think it's important to have different types of players available for different situations. If we could have, we would have liked to take both, but we decided on Jonas, and he will be with us tomorrow,” Rolfes said, according to Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger.

Boniface's road back

Boniface played a key role in Leverkusen's success under Xabi Alonso, helping Die Werkself secure the domestic double. However, recurring injuries — particularly knee problems — have hampered his progress since. So far this season, the Nigerian forward has been limited to just five minutes of action.

Rolfes, though, is adamant the striker's situation remains unchanged and that his opportunity will arrive.

“This doesn't change Boni's situation. He needs to stay fit, keep working hard and continue improving, and then his opportunity will come. I'm not worried. His most difficult situation came in early summer, and he has worked his way out of it. Since then, he has been in a much better place, mentally as well, and can once again see many more opportunities ahead of him,” the Leverkusen chief said.

Rolfes also addressed the areas where Boniface still needs to develop to reach his ceiling.

“In terms of intensity, pressing and working against the ball were never his main strengths, even when he was playing and scoring goals. He has other qualities. We want to get his fitness level as high as possible so that he can showcase his undoubted abilities even more effectively.”