Victor Boniface is having a difficult start at his new club, Werder Bremen, due to excess weight.

The striker, who led Bayer Leverkusen to the league title in 2024, is currently struggling with excess weight.

The club’s sporting director Clemens Fritz confirmed this to BILD.

Boniface was crowned champion last year under successful manager Xabi Alonso, with 21 goals and 10 assists in 34 official matches.

The following season, his numbers dipped somewhat, although he was still important for Leverkusen with 11 goals in 27 matches. A departure in the summer was inevitable, but his transfer was anything but smooth.

The former Union SG striker initially seemed destined for Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr, but failed his medical.

A few weeks later, a move to AC Milan also fell through. Ultimately, Boniface opted for a loan deal with low-flying Werder Bremen, where he has made only four appearances so far.

According to Fritz, this is due to his physical condition.

“We’ve clearly identified the issues together with Victor and are supporting him in every way possible,” said the sporting director.

“He accepts our support and wants to work on himself, with extra training, physiotherapy, and a modified nutrition plan. We’re working closely with him.”