Nigerian striker Victor Boniface has spoken candidly about the failed AC Milan transfer, revealing how a history of serious knee injuries played a decisive role in the deal’s collapse.
The move had all the makings of a dream transition: a stint at Leverkusen, a proposed loan deal to Milan with a sizable buy option, and a buzzing expectation of a Serie A breakthrough. But when rigorous medicals in Milan exposed lingering issues with his right knee—including scar tissue and weakened structure from two anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgeries in 2019 and 2020—AC Milan abruptly pulled the plug. The club ultimately shelved the deal, opting to explore other options.
For Boniface, the setback was more than just professional—it was personal. He revealed that at one point, following his second ACL injury—and amid the unbearable physical and emotional pain—he nearly gave up on football altogether. “When others were playing, I was just trying to walk back onto the field,” he reflected, his words heavy with the weight of his journey. He also endured the heartbreak of losing his mother around that same time, compounding his struggle to keep going.
Despite the setback, Boniface didn’t shy away from criticism. On the contrary, he challenged doubters to match his level, asserting his worth on the field and reminding fans of his on-pitch productivity with 32 goals in 61 appearances and a Bundesliga title under his belt.
Shortly after the Milan deal stalled, Boniface secured a season-long loan move to Werder Bremen—evidently passing a rigorous medical there. “If the move was meant to happen, it would have,” he said with resilience. “If it wasn’t meant to happen, I’ll move on.”
Milan’s decision wasn’t taken lightly. Their medical staff acknowledged his talent but judged the knee concerns worth stepping back. Boniface has since returned to Leverkusen to focus on recovery and performance, still under contract until 2028—but with his dreams of Serie A still very much alive.
More than news- Its Icegate