Victor Boniface has suffered another setback in his recovery after illness ruled him out of training with SV Werder Bremen, delaying his return to competitive action.

The 25-year-old was absent from the club’s training ground on Sunday morning , halting his gradual reintegration into the squad following a long injury layoff.

Boniface had been scheduled to feature for Werder Bremen's U23 team in Sunday afternoon's local derby against Bremer SV, but illness has now ruled him out of contention.

The Nigeria international has been working his way back to full fitness after undergoing knee surgery earlier in the year, which kept him out of action for several months.

Werder Bremen head coach Daniel Thioune has maintained a cautious approach to the striker’s comeback, stressing that the club is prioritising controlled, situational involvement rather than an immediate return to full match fitness.

Boniface has not played competitively since December 2025, when a persistent knee cartilage problem led to surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation process.

He only recently resumed training, with the hopes that he could still contribute before the end of the campaign.

However, this latest illness adds another obstacle to what has already been a difficult season for the Nigerian forward.

Werder Bremen continue to prioritise his long-term fitness and full recovery over any rushed return, with medical staff closely monitoring his progress.

Wale Adejumo