Liverpool’s experienced midfielder opens up on a difficult spell — but his message hints at something Reds fans will want to hear. Wataru Endo has finally spoken about his tough spell for both Liverpool and the Japan national team.
And while he did not hide his frustration, his words also raised a question that many Liverpool fans might now be asking — is this the beginning of a turnaround, or the start of a long goodbye?
The 32-year-old has slipped down the pecking order for club and country. At Liverpool, his minutes have dropped under Arne Slot. For Japan, he has recently lost his starting place to Kaishu Sano.
Yet Endo is still seen as a leader, a fighter, and someone who never hides from responsibility.
His latest comments give us a clearer picture of how he feels and what he wants next — but they also leave a small mystery hanging in the air.
A hint of frustration… and something more?
Endo returned to Japan’s lineup in a 3–0 win over Bolivia, ending a run of games on the bench. Speaking after the match, he admitted he is not fully happy with the situation he is in.
“I haven’t played many games, but I played with the feeling that I had to perform at a high level,” he said, according to Soccer King.
He explained that he tried to organize the team and handle tough defensive moments, adding that Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu’s 100th game made the win special.
But Endo didn’t hide his true feelings: “It was a milestone match, so I think it was good that we won, but I’m not completely satisfied.”
He also sent a message to fans: “So first I’ll go back to my club and do my best so that I can meet you again in March with a good face.”
For Liverpool supporters, that line is worth noting. It suggests he wants to fight for his place — even if the road back is steep.
Could Endo still force his way in?
Despite limited action this season, Endo insisted his fitness is still strong.
“It’s tough, but my match fitness hasn’t deteriorated that much,” he said. “It wasn’t bad.”
He may have to wait for chances. Slot’s system rarely uses a traditional single holding midfielder — the role Endo excelled in under Klopp.
Instead, the new setup favors ball carriers, press-resistant midfielders, and players who can break lines with quick runs.
Endo, a destroyer by nature, finds fewer moments where his skill set becomes the main plan.
There is also talk of Liverpool monitoring Dutch talent Kees Smit, with reports suggesting he could eventually fill the role Endo once held. If true, Endo’s long-term future may depend on how quickly he adapts — or whether he chooses a different path.
But for now, he remains committed, motivated, and ready whenever he’s called. And if Liverpool need someone to steady a storm late in games, Endo is still the right man to throw into the middle of the pitch battle.
What Anfield Home thinks?
Endo’s honesty is refreshing. He knows he is struggling for minutes, but he isn’t giving up. His mindset shows professionalism, pride, and a drive that could still help Liverpool this season.
However, unless Slot adjusts his midfield system or injuries open up opportunities, Endo’s role may continue to shrink. The next few months will reveal whether he can force his way back — or whether Liverpool quietly prepare for a successor.