Odemwingie Lauds Boniface for Staying in Europe, Avoiding Saudi Move

Former Super Eagles striker Peter Odemwingie has voiced strong support for Victor Boniface’s decision to remain at Bayer Leverkusen rather than accept a January move to Saudi Arabia. The 24 year old Nigerian forward was reportedly close to signing with Al Nassr, following Anderson Talisca’s departure from the Saudi side. However, the club opted for Colombian striker Jhon Durán instead.



Reacting to the failed transfer, Odemwingie said he was relieved the move didn’t materialise. "Honestly, I saw his possible departure for Saudi Arabia last January as a waste," he stated in comments reported by Africafoot. "Fortunately, it didn’t happen, and I think it’s a good thing for his career. Victor is a player of inestimable talent."



Boniface has been instrumental in Bayer Leverkusen’s sensational season under Xabi Alonso. He’s not only helped secure the club’s first-ever Bundesliga title but has also been a driving force in their UEFA Europa League run to the final. So far, he has scored eight goals in 18 league appearances.



Odemwingie believes staying in Europe has kept Boniface on a competitive path and predicts the striker will attract major offers from top-tier clubs in the summer. "He has the profile, for example, to make his mark in England or Spain. He’s a young striker who can still improve on certain details of his game, and I think he would be a great addition to his next club," he added.



Editorial



Victor Boniface made the right call—and we’re glad he did. In an age where money talks louder than ambition, it’s refreshing to see a young Nigerian talent choose growth over immediate financial gain. His choice to stay in Europe shows maturity and a hunger for elite football, qualities we desperately need more of in our footballing culture.