You’re starting at zero - Ex-Man United boss warns Super Eagles duo Boniface, Tella at Leverkusen

New Bayer Leverkusen manager Erik ten Hag has sent a clear message to Super Eagles stars Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella, and the rest of the squad as his reign starts.

Ten Hag told the media that past achievements will count for nothing as he seeks to usher in a new era at the Bundesliga club.

Speaking to the media ahead of his first match in charge since taking over from club legend Xabi Alonso, the former Manchester United boss set high standards for the team’s future under his leadership.

Ten Hag, known for his uncompromising approach and focus on continuous improvement, made it clear that every player is starting on a clean slate.

“We are starting at zero here,” Ten Hag said in a post shared by the club on X, formerly Twitter.

“The past doesn’t count anymore. We have to work really hard every day. Our mindset must be: Good is not good enough; we need to get better. So we want to create a new era,”

The comments serve as a firm warning to Boniface, Tella, and their teammates that every member of the squad will need to prove themselves all over again.

Both Nigerian forwards enjoyed standout moments under Alonso, but Ten Hag’s words emphasise that reputations and previous performances will not guarantee a place in his plans.

While Leverkusen prepare for their upcoming preseason friendlies, the spotlight will be on how the “Naija boys” and their colleagues respond to the new manager’s challenge and whether they can rise to the heightened expectations in the upcoming campaign.

For Boniface, Tella, and the rest of the Leverkusen squad, it’s not just a new season, it’s a brand-new contest for places under Ten Hag’s demanding regime.