Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface has revealed why he continues to turn down offers to play in the English Premier League, citing a personal dislike for the league’s style of play and the immense pressure that often comes with it.
The 24-year-old Bayer Leverkusen forward, who had an impressive debut season in the Bundesliga before injury setbacks hampered his second campaign, said he prefers football that suits his natural rhythm, particularly the possession-based approach found in La Liga.
Speaking on The Culture League podcast alongside compatriot Frank Onyeka, Boniface said:
“I don’t really like the Premier League. It’s not like if I have the opportunity to go, I won’t take it, but if I’m going to make that move, it has to be to a certain type of team.
Before I agree to a transfer or join a club, I always look at the type of football they play. Will it suit me? Is it a team with too much pressure? Because some players can’t perform well under pressure.”
Boniface, who attracted interest from Premier League clubs including Newcastle United, revealed he had turned down offers from England in the past due to concerns about fitting into high-pressure environments that don’t align with his footballing identity.
“Before I moved to Leverkusen, I had a great season in Belgium. There were offers from England, good money too, but I just didn’t want to join that kind of team,” he added.
“If you put me in a possession-based side, I’ll give you everything. I can go to a club and be the standout player, but we might lose a game, and everyone points fingers at me.
“From the grassroots level, that’s how I’ve always played. If I’m on the pitch, I bring everyone along with me.”
With clubs like AC Milan also showing interest, Boniface appears more inclined toward a move to Spain or Italy, where he believes his skillset can thrive without the kind of relentless scrutiny often found in the Premier League.
