Is the Bundesliga better at developing talent than the Premier League?

Bayer Leverkusen’s newest recruit Victor Boniface has begun settling into life with the Werkself after taking part in his first few training sessions. However, it could have been very different for the 22-year-old Nigerian striker.

While Leverkusen were the fortunate side to land Boniface’s signature, there were a host of sides lined up to lure the physically imposing 6’2” striker. Amongst the clubs interested were a number of Premier League sides, however, Boniface chose to ply his trade in the Bundesliga instead. 

When asked about his decision, Boniface claimed: “Bayer is a big club, it’s a dream for me to play here. I’ve spoken to a few players. It already feels like my home… I asked friends and my advisor what would be the right move for me. I still have a lot to learn, Leverkusen is a big step for me to learn – as a person and as a footballer.”

Nevertheless, while a move to the Bundesliga and to Bayer Leverkusen could be considered a step up in his career, there may be more to his decision. While speaking to the media, a common theme that ran throughout the Nigerian’s answers was the not so subtle name dropping of Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso. 

After scoring against the Werkself in the last season’s Europa League campaign, Boniface revealed how impressed Alonso was by his display. “The coach said nice things about me after the game, I was very happy about that. A week after the game, my advisor said: ‘There might be a chance to go to Leverkusen.”

The Bayer head coach was able to galvanise an underperforming squad last season, to transform them into one of the Bundesliga’s most feared sides. One of the most naturally gifted footballers of his generation, Alonso has already begun proving why he is one of the best managers in the Bundesliga and world football.

For Boniface, the choice between the Premier League and the Bundesliga was simple; the Premier League does not have Xabi Alonso. The new arrival would conclude with a final piece of appraisal for his new head coach: “Xabi is a big help for me to learn and develop as a player.”

GGFN | Will Shopland