Liverpool Complete Signing of Wataru Endo from Stuttgart
Liverpool Football Club has announced the completion of the signing of defensive midfielder Wataru Endo from Stuttgart for a reported fee of €19 million. The Japan international has signed a four-year contract with the Premier League giants.
Liverpool turned their attention to Endo after missing out on their pursuit of Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, who both opted to sign for Chelsea. Manager Jurgen Klopp expressed his happiness with the signing, stating, “I know in this world of football how it goes and stuff like this, but have a look, because he’s a really good player. Experienced player, captain of Stuttgart, captain of Japan, speaks good English, nice fella, family man, machine on the pitch, good footballer on top of that, sensational attitude.”
Endo himself expressed his excitement about joining Liverpool, saying, “It feels amazing and this is my dream. It’s always been a dream to play in the Premier League and with one of the biggest clubs in the world. I can’t wait to play at Anfield in front of Liverpool fans.”
Bought primarily as a defensive midfielder, Endo brings versatility to the Liverpool squad as he can also operate at centre back and right-back. He has been a consistent presence for Stuttgart, missing just three games over the past three seasons.
One of the attractions for Liverpool was Endo’s leadership skills, which will be valuable following the departures of experienced midfielders such as Jordan Henderson, James Milner, and Fabinho this summer. He will join Liverpool’s current crop of national team captains, including Andy Robertson, Virgil van Dijk, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Mohammed Salah.
Endo’s availability for Liverpool’s upcoming game against Bournemouth will depend on whether his work permit and international clearance are granted in time. The 50-time capped Japan international represented his country in the 2022 World Cup.
What will Endo bring to Liverpool?
German football expert Sebastian Stafford-Bloor analyzed Endo’s qualities and highlighted his importance to Stuttgart last season. He described Endo as a fierce competitor, an excellent professional, and a superb role model. Stafford-Bloor also emphasized Endo’s tenacity as a ball-winner and his energy in screening the defense, making him difficult to play against.
Endo is not just a simple stopper, as he possesses good passing ability and technique. This makes him a suitable fit for Liverpool’s technical style of play. Additionally, with the departures of James Milner and Jordan Henderson, Klopp will be looking for a new leader in the squad, and Endo has the potential to fill that role.
The decision to stay at Stuttgart despite interest from other clubs can be attributed to Endo’s commitment to his family. As the father of five children, it would take a special opportunity for him to uproot his family.
In conclusion, Liverpool’s signing of Wataru Endo from Stuttgart is a significant addition to their midfield. Endo brings defensive solidity, leadership qualities, and versatility to the squad. With his experience and work ethic, he is expected to make a positive impact at Anfield. Liverpool fans can look forward to seeing Endo in action once his work permit and international clearance are granted.