Liverpool transfer error confirmed after what Wataru Endo did against Mexico
Wataru Endo has been a solid player since arriving at Liverpool.
Endo surprisingly signed from Stuttgart for £16million in the summer of 2023 following Liverpool‘s failed pursuit of Moises Caicedo, who joined Chelsea.
However, Endo was brilliant in his first season at Anfield, usurping a starting role in Liverpool’s midfield under Jurgen Klopp as they finished third.
Last season, Arne Slot reduced Endo’s minutes significantly, favouring Ryan Gravenberch over him, which paid dividends as the Dutchman won the Premier League Young Player of the Year award.
Slot’s decision to use Endo as a substitute was justified, and he needs to find a permanent replacement for him after what the former Stuttgart man did against Mexico.
Wataru Endo loses midfield battle as Japan draw with Mexico
Japan were held to a 0-0 draw with Mexico in Oakland, California, overnight, with Endo playing all 90 minutes.
Minimal action occurred until the final minutes as Cesar Montes was sent off for a late challenge, but the Japanese had little time to take advantage.
Endo struggled to make an impact defensively for his side, as the Japanese captain only won four of his 10 duels in a midfield pivot with Crystal Palace’s Daichi Kamada.
| Wataru Endo vs Mexico | Total |
| Ground duel success rate | 4/9 (44%) |
| Aerial duel success rate | 0/1 (0%) |
| Fouls committed | 3 |
Japan are already safely through to next summer’s World Cup after winning their qualifying group back in March, but they were left frustrated here.
Arne Slot needs to find a replacement for Wataru Endo
Slot’s side opted against signing another defensive midfielder this summer, as they believed both Endo and Curtis Jones were sufficient back-up for the season ahead.
Japan’s draw has emphasised again that the midfielder cannot be fully relied upon if Gravenberch is injured or suspended, which is a big possibility given the fact he has two yellow cards in as many games this season.
If Stefan Bajcetic is unable to remain fit and act as Liverpool’s back-up defensive midfielder long-term, then Slot needs to find a suitable replacement as quickly as possible, especially with Endo set to leave the club within the next two seasons.
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