There’s no money in football — Victor Boniface opens up on finances

Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface has pushed back against the common belief that professional footballers are all extremely wealthy, stressing that the reality is far more complicated.

Speaking on The Culture League podcast alongside teammate Frank Onyeka and actress Jemima Osunde, the Bayer Leverkusen striker explained that while football may seem lucrative, much of a player’s income goes toward obligations, family support, and helping fans.

He also pointed out that unlike other careers, football offers a very short window to earn.“A lot of people think we’re rich, but there’s no money in football. I will explain,” Boniface said. “In the film industry, you can work at the age of 35, you can even get your breakthrough at the age of 40. But with football, at the age of 35, you are done. Then you have to face the real life.”

Osunde responded, “But you [footballers] usually start off early na.”

Boniface replied, “Yeah, but if you don’t get it before 25, 26, then forget it. But with movies and other professions, you can come into the scene at old age… Everyone thinks we [footballers] are making money, they make the money…”

Osunde suggested, “Even with just five years of football with good pay, my life is changed forever.”

Boniface disagreed, saying the financial demands are high: “No. That’s where you got it wrong. Because you will spend more also. You will assist family and even outsiders. If you’re travelling, you have to keep money for tipping.”