Liverpool’s pursuit of a new No. 6 last summer was no secret, especially after the departure of Fabinho. Fans were expecting a young and experienced option to fill the role, but Jurgen Klopp surprised everyone by targeting Wataru Endo, the 30-year-old captain of Stuttgart. Despite initial doubts, Klopp saw something in Endo that made him believe he was the right fit for Liverpool.
Endo’s first season with Liverpool was a mixed bag. He started in 34 games across all competitions, scoring 2 goals and providing 1 assist. His overall season rating was 7.21, indicating a solid performance. However, there were still doubts about his ability to handle certain aspects of the game, particularly when it came to defending against dribblers.
Nevertheless, Endo quickly became an important player for Klopp’s team. He proved himself as a reliable passer, completing the third-most short passes in the squad with a completion percentage of 92.2%. He also won the third-most tackles in the squad. Endo’s strong aerial presence and determination to prove himself earned him praise from both fans and the club.
Despite his contributions, there is still a need for another No. 6 in Liverpool’s squad. Endo, at 31 years old, was seen as a temporary solution to the team’s midfield needs. The club must now focus on finding a younger, experienced player who can share the load with Endo. The decision will ultimately be made by new sporting director Richard Hughes and FSG’s CEO of Football Michael Edwards.
Overall, Endo’s first season with Liverpool was a success, but there is still work to be done. He has proven himself as a valuable asset to the team, but the search for a long-term solution at No. 6 continues. With the right additions to the squad, Liverpool can solidify their midfield and continue to compete at the highest level.