Wataru Endo’s tenure at Liverpool may be nearing its conclusion, as he doesn’t seem to fit into Arne Slot’s future plans, according to The Athletic’s Andy Jones.
Endo transferred to Liverpool from Stuttgart last summer for around £15 million, initially expected to serve as a squad player.
The 31-year-old ended up making regular appearances under Jurgen Klopp, playing a crucial role in the team’s Champions League qualification. However, following 43 appearances last season—29 in the Premier League—Endo’s situation has changed.
This season, he has yet to start under Slot and has played only one minute in the Premier League, along with a minute in the Champions League match against AC Milan on Tuesday.
Slot has favored other players over the Japan international, and Jones notes that it’s clear the Dutch coach doesn’t see Endo in his long-term plans, given his limited involvement during pre-season and the early matches.
Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Curtis Jones have all been prioritized, and with Harvey Elliott still sidelined due to injury, Endo’s role appears even more diminished.
Liverpool is actively seeking a defensive midfielder after missing out on Martin Zubimendi this summer, indicating that Endo’s future at the club looks uncertain despite his relatively short stay.
