Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface has boldly declared himself a strong contender for the 2024 African Player of the Year award, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Boniface's confidence comes despite Ademola Lookman's favoritism for the honor, following his impressive performances for Nigeria and Atalanta.
Lookman starred in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, scoring three goals in seven appearances, and netted a historic hat-trick in Atalanta's UEFA Europa League final victory.
However, Boniface pointed to his own stellar campaign with Bayer Leverkusen, where he scored 21 goals and provided 10 assists in all competitions.
"Probably between me and Lookman. I will go for myself as the African Footballer of the Year; I rate myself that high," Boniface told SportyTV via DailyPost.
"If it's just what we did last season, I'll pick myself."
Boniface's impressive display helped Leverkusen win the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal.
The 23-year-old Nigerian's assertion underscores his growing ambition and self-belief.
With Victor Osimhen claiming the award in 2023, Boniface aims to follow in his compatriot's footsteps.
The African Player of the Year award will be closely contested, with Boniface and Lookman leading other contenders.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun