Wataru Endo Set for Liverpool Exit as Transfer List Looms

Wataru Endo’s time at Liverpool is hanging by a thread. The Japanese midfielder is set to be placed on the transfer market in January, just six games into the season. Manager Andoni Iraola’s decision suggests that Endo's future at Anfield is bleak.

Endo joined Liverpool from VfB Stuttgart for £16 million in August 2023, quickly establishing himself as a dependable player. In his debut season, he made 43 appearances and scored twice. However, injuries plagued his second season, limiting him to just eight Premier League games and 12 appearances overall.

This season has been a stark contrast. Endo has not played a single minute in the Premier League and was notably omitted from Liverpool's 25-man Champions League squad. Despite being named on the bench in league fixtures, he has yet to see any action.

Ben Jacobs, a journalist, provided insight into Endo’s situation, stating, "Endo's contract runs out at the end of the season, and it appears likely that Liverpool will look to take advantage of their final opportunity to recoup some money for him in January." With several players ahead of him in the pecking order, Jacobs believes an exit is imminent.

Iraola has addressed the situation, acknowledging Endo’s struggles. After a recent match, he said, "Wata lost quite a lot of the pre-season. I think he is still not at his best but he is training very well. The problem is, in front of him in his position, I have a lot of players."

Young talents like James McConnell and Trey Nyoni have been favored over Endo, highlighting his current standing within the squad. With the club undergoing significant changes over the summer, including the departures of key players like Mohamed Salah and Andrew Robertson, the competition for places has intensified.

As Liverpool prepares to reshape their squad, Wataru Endo’s future looks increasingly uncertain as the January transfer window approaches.