Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman has voiced his frustration over Victor Boniface’s exclusion from the 2024 Men’s Player of the Year nominees, calling the omission surprising given Boniface’s stellar contributions to Bayer Leverkusen’s success in the 2023/24 season.
The 23-year-old Boniface was pivotal in Leverkusen’s dominant campaign under Xabi Alonso, helping the team secure both the Bundesliga title and the DFB Pokal.
Leverkusen’s remarkable unbeaten league run was complemented by Boniface’s individual brilliance, as the forward netted 21 goals in 34 appearances across all competitions.
Lookman, speaking to Sporty TV, expressed his admiration for his compatriot’s achievements. “Obviously Boniface, my teammate, had an amazing season last year. I think with his personal achievements, personal goals, and also winning two titles last year with Leverkusen,” he said.
“They were unbeaten in their league, special. Maybe he could have been nominated for sure, but you know I am not the one that makes the rules, you know.”
Boniface’s standout performances were instrumental in Leverkusen’s resurgence under Alonso, and many expected him to be recognized among the world’s best players.
Lookman’s comments add weight to a growing conversation about the criteria used for top football awards and whether players like Boniface are overlooked despite exceptional seasons.