Super Eagles star Victor Boniface has responded quietly to recent scrutiny from Werder Bremen boss Horst Steffen, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Nigerian international has been at the center of criticism since joining Werder Bremen on loan from Bayer Leverkusen in the 2025 summer transfer window.
The former Union Saint-Gilloise forward shared a brief but pointed message on his Instagram story that read, “Step by step.”
Boniface posted the caption alongside a photo of himself, which depicts his measured stance as he works to find form in Bremen.
The message comes days after Steffen publicly challenged the Super Eagles forward to raise his performance levels.
The manager has twice voiced concerns about Boniface’s impact this season and has urged him to be more effective in the final third.
What Steffen said about Victor Boniface
Steffen first questioned Boniface’s tactical discipline after Bremen clashed with Freiburg on matchday four, noting the striker drifted too much.
“He was too everywhere for me. He should definitely be more centrally located. It wasn’t how I wanted it.” he said as quoted by Onefootball.
Following the Mainz 05 game, the Bremen coach again pushed for improvement, saying Boniface tried to hold up the ball but should produce more.
“He tried to hold onto the ball up front. Today I thought to myself: Come on, he can do even better.”
Steffen’s comments have sparked debate among fans, with some urging patience for the Nigerian as he continues to settle at the club.
Boniface’s start to life at Werder Bremen
Boniface arrived in Bremen with high expectations after winning the Bundesliga Rookie of the Year award with Bayer Leverkusen, but he has yet to hit similar heights for his new club.
The forward has registered just one assist in seven Bundesliga appearances, and he is still searching for his first goal for Bremen.
Fitness adaptation and new tactical demands have contributed to a slow start.
What Boniface said
Rather than respond directly to the criticism, Boniface chose a subtle approach. His Instagram story simply read:
“Step by step”
The brief message hints at a determination to prove himself and rise to Steffen’s challenge without engaging in any public back-and-forth.