Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has warned Nigerian striker Victor Boniface against repeating his early departure to the dressing room after being overlooked in Saturday’s dramatic 4-3 Bundesliga victory over Mainz.

Boniface, who has struggled for regular playing time this season, was reportedly frustrated after coach Carles Martínez failed to introduce him during the encounter. 

The Super Eagles forward headed down the tunnel rather than remaining on the bench with his teammates following Leverkusen’s final substitutions in the 84th minute, when Equi Fernández and Jonas Hofmann replaced Aleix García and Patrik Schick.

The incident has further highlighted the Nigerian’s uncertain situation at the German club, where his opportunities have been severely limited. 

Boniface has made just one Bundesliga appearance this season, playing five minutes in Leverkusen’s opening-day 3-2 defeat to SV Elversberg, during which he provided an assist for Christian Kofane. 

He has subsequently been overlooked against Union Berlin, Leipzig and Mainz, while missing out entirely against Augsburg.

Martínez admitted that he did not notice the reported walkout during the match but indicated that he would address the situation with the striker. 

“If that’s what happened, we’ll speak to him,” the coach told Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger, stressing that selection decisions are part of football.

Rolfes also responded to the incident with a light hearted remark, although his message carried a clear warning.

 “Perhaps he went into the dressing room a little too early today. It won’t happen next time,” the sporting director said. Despite the reprimand, he praised Boniface’s improving fitness and professionalism, describing him as a good member of the squad and training group. 

With Christian Kofane recently injured, the Nigerian could have an opportunity to revive his Leverkusen campaign, but he will need to remain patient and professional as he battles to regain the coach’s confidence.