Wataru Endo is the lock on the door for Arne Slot: Liverpool has not conceded a single goal in the Premier League with the Japanese midfielder on the pitch. "The fact that he is always ready for the team despite limited minutes makes him special," the coach said about his midfielder on Tuesday afternoon.
In Sunday’s match against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Liverpool’s midfielder once again proved himself as a true specialist for The Reds.
Matheus Cunha had just scored a stunning goal, putting Wolves back into the game and causing concern among the Liverpool coaching staff and fans. At that moment, Slot made a crucial decision, introducing Wataru Endo to bring balance to the midfield and shut down Wolves’ growing momentum. The task was clear: the Brazilian star needed to be neutralized, as the defensive midfielder later explained to Liverpool’s official website after the match.
From the moment he stepped onto the pitch, Endo’s presence was immediately felt. His ability to read the game, anticipate movements, and cut passing lanes disrupted Wolves’ rhythm, preventing them from capitalizing on their newfound confidence after Cunha’s goal. Analysts on the club’s media channel praised his impact, emphasizing how he completely changed the flow of the game. "Cunha was enjoying complete freedom on the field in the second half, feeling comfortable and having just scored, until Endo came in. He frustrated Wolves' key player and took him out of the game," they noted, highlighting how the midfielder’s tactical discipline helped Liverpool regain control.
Beyond his defensive contributions, Endo also played a key role in Liverpool’s ball retention, allowing them to dictate the tempo in the final stages of the match. His composure under pressure and ability to find the right passing options ensured that Wolves had fewer opportunities to create dangerous counterattacks. Liverpool secured a 2-1 victory, with Endo playing a crucial role in maintaining control and sealing the result. His performance did not go unnoticed, as he received loud applause from the Anfield crowd after his final action of the match, where he cleverly drew a foul to break up a Wolves attack. His intelligence in such moments showcased why he is such a valuable asset to the team, even when playing limited minutes.
The 32-year-old Japanese midfielder was subsequently voted Man of the Match by Liverpool fans, a recognition of his immense contribution in a relatively short period on the pitch. Despite having only played 99 minutes in the Premier League across eleven appearances this season, his influence in decisive moments has been undeniable. His role has been somewhat restricted due to competition from Ryan Gravenberch and other midfield options, but his professionalism and readiness to step up when called upon have earned him great respect within the squad.
Ahead of Wednesday’s clash against Aston Villa, Slot was asked whether Endo deserved more minutes, considering his impact. The manager acknowledged his importance, stating, "Wata has been very important for us this season. It doesn’t matter how many minutes he plays. He is so mentally strong that when the team needs him, he performs at his best." Slot’s words reflect the trust he has in Endo’s ability to deliver in crucial moments, even without regular playing time.
Endo’s journey at Liverpool has been one of quiet but significant influence. Having arrived from Stuttgart, where he was known for his leadership and defensive reliability, his adaptation to the Premier League initially required patience. However, he has proven to be an invaluable squad player, capable of stepping in and making a difference when needed. His style of play may not always attract headlines, but his tactical intelligence, work rate, and ability to control the game’s tempo make him a key asset in Liverpool’s midfield.
As Liverpool continues their title push, Endo’s role could become even more vital, particularly in games where defensive solidity and experience are required. While younger players may offer more dynamism, Endo brings a sense of calm and positional awareness that can be crucial in high-pressure situations. If he continues to deliver performances like the one against Wolves, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him earning more minutes as the season progresses.
