Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo, who played in Jurgen Klopp’s final season at Liverpool and became a regular in the second half of the season, has struggled for playing time since Arne Slot took over as manager.
The Dutch coach has spoken of his trust in him, but he only comes on at the end of games.While he has been given centre-back and other responsibilities in cup competitions, he has not started in the Premier League or Champions League, even in consecutive games when Ryan Gravenberch is tired.
Although many have been waiting for more use of the 32-year-old veteran midfielder, coach Slot rarely changes the composition of his midfielders, perhaps because he does not want to change the midfield’s structure.
And there are dark clouds over the departure of the Japanese midfielders.
According to Sky Sport Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Eintracht Frankfurt, who have shown interest in the player for some time, have made enquiries with a view to securing him, but are still considering whether to make a move due to a combination of transfer fees and other factors.
“Eintracht Frankfurt have enquired about Wataru Endo. The 32y/o midfielder is a possible candidate for SGE in the summer, but other names are also being considered. Endo is allowed to leave Liverpool, as reported.”
“Currently, the topic is not a priority for Eintracht, partly because the overall package is still too expensive.”
“Frankfurt are informed about the situation, as per BILD_Eintracht and confirmed.”
🚨🦅 Eintracht Frankfurt have enquired about Wataru #Endo. The 32y/o midfielder is a possible candidate for #SGE in the summer, but other names are also being considered. Endo is allowed to leave Liverpool, as reported.
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) March 31, 2025
Currently, the topic is not a priority for Eintracht,… pic.twitter.com/Qod2WNUzZh
A defensive midfielder who captained Japan, has a high level of leadership and the dexterity to ensure he plays to his head coach’s requirements:in addition to being strong off the ball, his ability to read the game and show up in dangerous situations is something that Gravenberch will have to learn to do.
It seems unlikely that he will be released at this time of the season, as he has just announced an Asian tour of Hong Kong and Japan this summer.
He has also been praised for his approach to training and is certainly a player to keep in the team as a role model for other players and youngsters.
Will the 32-year-old midfielder continue to play at Anfield next season, or will he return to his familiar home in Germany?