Wataru Endo: Who's Liverpool's New Midfielder?

After failed bids for Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, Liverpool are finally adding a new midfielder to their ranks.

Liverpool FC has reportedly completed a move for Stuttgart’s Wataru Endo.

Born on February 9, 1993, Endo’s football journey has seen him traverse various clubs, honing his skills and gaining experience that led him to Liverpool’s doorstep.

Let’s delve into the background and attributes of this Japanese talent that prompted Jurgen Klopp’s interest.

Endo’s Previous Clubs

Endo’s football career began at a young age when he played for Shonan Bellmare from 2008 to 2016. His performances convinced J-League giants Urawa Reds to add him to their ranks, where he played for two years.
Belgium club Sint-Truiden was Endo’s first destination in Europe, paving the way for his move to Stuttgart in 2019. Since then, Endu has established himself as a key player in Stuttgart’s midfield while also taking on the captaincy role.

Why are Liverpool signing Endu?

Liverpool’s pursuit of Endo underscores their commitment to bolstering their midfield ranks, especially after missing out on other coveted targets. Although not a young talent, Endo’s proven consistency and versatility make him an astute addition to the squad, especially in the wake of departures like Fabinho, Henderson, and Milner.

Endo’s entry to Liverpool makes him the third Japanese currently to play in the league. From Premier League betting to various merch to live broadcast proves, the pinnacle of world football has been quite popular in his home country already, but he is expected to bring even more attention.

A Complete Midfielder

Endo’s reliability and expertise in the holding role make him a valuable asset for both the defensive and offensive aspects of the game. His ability to contribute across phases stems from his extensive experience. His proficiency in duels and tackles, as evidenced by his Bundesliga rankings, aligns seamlessly with Klopp’s preferred combative style.

Adapting to Premier League Dynamics

Endo’s prowess extends beyond defensive attributes. His adept passing and creative playmaking abilities set him apart. Notably, he ranked among the top chance creators in the Bundesliga last season, showcasing his aptitude for generating chances from open play. His adaptability to press forward and contribute to counter-attacks enhances Liverpool’s attacking dynamics.

Consistency

Endo’s consistent presence on the pitch echoes Klopp’s penchant for durable players. His track record of almost constant appearances makes him a reliable choice, contrasting with past injury-prone acquisitions. Endo’s robustness aligns well with Klopp’s vision of a cohesive and dependable team.

A Promising Signing

Wataru Endo’s arrival at Liverpool promises to invigorate the midfield with his skill set and experience. His versatility, defensive acumen, and creative flair position him as a well-rounded midfielder capable of thriving in Klopp’s tactical framework.