Wataru Endo Makes “Not Satisfied” Liverpool Admission Amid Transfer Speculation
Wataru Endo has not been a regular feature for Liverpool this season, making just one appearance in both the Premier League and the Champions League across the entire campaign.
Wataru Endo admitted he is “not satisfied” with his lack of game time at Liverpool but indicated he would rather stay at Anfield and play fewer minutes than leave the club in search of more opportunities elsewhere.
Endo joined Liverpool in 2023 and was a regular presence during his first season, making 44 appearances under Jurgen Klopp. This season, he has played in 32 games, though the majority of those appearances have been from the bench.
After clocking almost 3,000 minutes of game time under Klopp, Endo has featured for less than 1,000 minutes under Arne Slot, sparking speculation about his long-term future at Liverpool.
Ryan Gravenberch has impressed in the holding midfield role that Endo was originally signed for, and Liverpool have also been linked with Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller as a potential competitor for Gravenberch in that position.
Despite that, Endo believes that his future lies at Anfield. “Yeah, I’ve heard it [the transfer speculation],” Endo told Abema. “People keep bringing it up. I’ve gotten messages from friends.
“Even my family is like, ‘So… what are you going to do?’ And yeah, sometimes other players ask too, ‘are you going to be here next year?’ Especially after the middle of the season. But I just say, ‘as far as I’m concerned, I’m staying.'”
Asked whether he would prefer stay at Liverpool and play less frequently over joining another club, Endo replied: “Yeah, I’d say so.
“I really think Liverpool is that kind of club — one that’s worth it. If I have the opportunity to play here, I wouldn’t throw it away just to go somewhere else. I believe that giving it my all here, and helping Liverpool win more titles, is the path to making my career as fulfilling as possible.”
When Endo was then asked whether fans could expect Endo to be at Liverpool next season, he said: “Yes, you can. As of now.”
The 32-year-old midfielder has received public praise from Slot on multiple occasions, as the coach has admired his positive attitude despite personal setbacks.
During a press conference in March, Endo shared that Slot had also praised him in private discussions between the two.
“It has been a little tough for me because I have not played as much but all I can do is help the team,” said Endo. “I always try to help the team and if I have a chance to play, I go all in.
“I usually come on for the last 15-20 minutes when we are winning. It is very difficult to do but I always want to help my teammates. I have been playing well so far and have helped the team. I want to keep doing well when I get the chance.
“I have had a few conversations with the manager this season. He always told me that my attitude and example to the team is unbelievable. I feel that he trusts me a lot at the moment. I will keep working hard in training and on the pitch.”
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