Werder Bremen head coach Daniel Thioune has shed light on the situation surrounding Victor Boniface, revealing that the striker will only return to action once he is deemed fully fit following his recent recovery from injury.

Boniface, who has been sidelined with a knee problem, only recently resumed training with the Bundesliga side. 

However, concerns over his physical condition have dominated discussions, particularly after reports emerged that the Nigerian forward returned to training above his optimal weight.

Despite his return to training, the 25-year-old has missed Werder Bremen’s last two league fixtures against RB Leipzig and FC Köln, raising questions about his readiness to contribute as the club fights to secure its top-flight status.

Addressing the situation, Daniel Thioune stressed that Boniface will be gradually reintegrated into the squad, particularly in matches against teams of a similar level to Werder Bremen.

"As soon as I feel he's ready, he'll get playing time," he revealed via Bild.

"But when I think about matches against teams of equal strength, it's a way to threaten the opponent again with him."

While the manager remains hopeful about the striker’s potential impact, club legend Aílton Gonçalves da Silva has offered a far more critical assessment. 

The former Bundesliga top scorer did not hold back in his evaluation of Boniface’s current condition, insisting that the forward must urgently improve his fitness.

"His belly is unbelievable. He absolutely has to lose weight. I don't see him scoring any more goals for Werder this season," Aílton added. 

Boniface’s struggles have extended beyond fitness concerns. Since arriving at Werder Bremen in the summer, the Nigerian international has endured a difficult spell, registering just two assists in 11 league appearances and failing to find the back of the net.

Despite these challenges, Werder Bremen remain eager to have the forward available as they continue their battle to avoid relegation from the Bundesliga. 

With crucial fixtures ahead, Thioune will hope that Boniface can regain both his fitness and form in time to play a meaningful role in the club’s survival push.

Adeyemi Adewale