Wataru Endo has retired from international football after being omitted from Japan's World Cup squad, a decision that may paradoxically benefit his Liverpool career. The Japan captain was expected to feature in the Samurai Blue squad after recovering from a serious ankle injury, but national team boss Hajime Moriyasu deemed him not fully fit.
Endo's World Cup Exclusion and Retirement
Endo suffered a season-ending ankle injury during Liverpool's Premier League match at Sunderland in February, which was his only league start of the 2025-26 campaign. He returned for Japan's final warm-up game against Iceland on May 31, but Moriyasu opted to select players closer to full fitness.
"As the head coach, I was the one who made the final decision," Moriyasu said. "During the game with Iceland, he was not able to perform on the pitch for a long time. We discussed that throughout the World Cup, it may be difficult for him to perform for the entire period of the games."
Endo announced his retirement from international duty in an emotional social media post. "I will be stepping away from the World Cup squad. Since my injury, I've done everything I possibly could, so I have no regrets," he wrote. "With this campaign, I will be retiring from the national team."
Liverpool Career Under Scrutiny
Endo made 43 appearances under Jurgen Klopp in the German's final season, including 34 starts. However, under Arne Slot, his role diminished significantly. Over two seasons under Slot, Endo started just 10 matches, with only three in the Premier League. His campaign ended prematurely due to the ankle injury sustained at Sunderland, where he was playing as a makeshift right-back.
The arrival of new head coach Andoni Iraola presents an opportunity for Endo to earn more game time. At 33, and in the final year of his contract, the midfielder faces a critical pre-season period to prove his worth. "The prospect of a new head coach opens the door for Endo to more game-time," the ECHO reports. "The lack of key men this pre-season allows the Japan star the chance to impress."
Specialist Role Under Slot
Under Slot, Endo was used as a specialist defensive midfielder, often introduced late in games to protect leads. He excelled in this role, notably in narrow victories at Crystal Palace and at home to Wolves. However, his limited starts raised questions about his long-term future at Anfield.
Endo was wanted by Marseille two years ago but chose to stay and fight for his place. He played a role in Liverpool's Premier League title win under Slot, but his influence waned. Now, with Iraola at the helm, Endo has a chance to re-establish himself as a first-team regular.
Last Chance Saloon
Heading into the final year of his contract, this summer is a make-or-break period for Endo at Liverpool. While becoming a regular starter may be an ambitious goal, he has a fighting chance to impress during pre-season. The ECHO concludes: "Endo is in the Last Chance Saloon for his Liverpool career."
