Leverkusen begin their Bundesliga title defence away at Borussia Mönchengladbach on August 23, having already added to their trophy collection by beating Stuttgart on penalties in the German Super Cup final – Boniface scored the first goal in a 2-2 draw.

They also face the additional challenge of having to balance their domestic season with their return to the newly expanded Champions League.

The new format of the competition now sees teams play eight matches in a league phase, increasing the number of games for elite clubs.

“I haven’t looked at the new Champions League system yet, but just playing football makes me happy,” said Boniface.

Despite all the excitement, criticism of the new football calendar is also increasing.

Global players’ union Fifpro and several European clubs have expressed concern that the changes could affect players’ welfare.

The new FIFA calendar, which includes an expanded Club World Cup with 32 teams to be held next June and July, has also met with criticism.

“It’s not easy to play so many games and a long season,” said Boniface, who missed three months of the 2023/24 season due to a groin injury.

“Of course we need the peace and quiet.

“I understand why other players or coaches say that. They should understand why many players complain.”

FIFA argues that the introduction of an annual global league for international teams, alongside adjustments to international breaks, is crucial to the global growth of football as it increases revenue and offers both nations and clubs more opportunities to compete at the highest level.

Leverkusen showed remarkable resilience last season, missing out on winning the treble by just one game during a long campaign.

Their only defeat came in the Europa League final, where Boniface’s Nigerian teammate Ademola Lookman scored a hat-trick to secure victory for Atalanta.

“He is Nigerian and I am Nigerian – there is great mutual respect,” Boniface said.

“They got the result and I’m happy for him.”