Wataru Endo: The Unsung Hero of Liverpool’s Championship Season
Wataru Endo, Liverpool’s lone natural defensive midfielder, has had a season marked by limited appearances yet significant contributions. Although he started only one league match during the 2024/25 season, his influence on the squad helped propel Liverpool to the top, clinching the championship with four games to spare. This article delves into Endo’s unique role, the trust placed in him by the coaching staff, and his potential trajectory moving forward.
Understanding Endo’s Limited Game Time
At first glance, it may seem perplexing that a player who started just one league game could be viewed positively in a season review. However, Endo’s limited minutes do not overshadow his impact. His total playing time dropped dramatically from 2,848 minutes in the 2023/24 season to just 865 minutes in all competitions in 2024/25. Under new head coach Arne Slot, Endo’s role shifted significantly, leading to questions about his place in the squad, especially given that he is the only specialized defensive midfielder available.
Endo’s playing time was largely concentrated in the League Cup, where he saw more action than in the Premier League. Notably, his only league start came after the title was already secured, and even in the Champions League, his appearances were limited to matches that had little bearing on qualification. This trend raised eyebrows, particularly as the season wound down and some of Liverpool’s midfielders appeared to be fatigued.
Playing the Role of a Closer
Despite not being a regular starter, Endo became a reliable presence during critical moments of matches. His late-game substitutions often served to solidify the team’s lead, akin to a closer in baseball who steps in to secure a win. Slot’s confidence in Endo was evident; he frequently turned to him when the outcome was still uncertain, demonstrating a different type of trust—not as a starter, but as a key player in high-pressure situations.
Endo’s effectiveness in this role is highlighted by his impressive points-per-appearance rating of 2.50, one of the highest among his teammates. This statistic reflects his ability to contribute meaningfully in brief moments on the pitch, underscoring the importance of his presence even when he was not a starter.
Coaching Praise and Professionalism
Arne Slot has consistently praised Endo’s contributions, recognizing that the value of a player isn’t solely measured by the minutes played. In his press conferences, Slot has noted Endo’s exceptional work ethic and professionalism, calling him “really useful” and emphasizing that he “always shows up” when needed. This perspective sheds light on Endo’s role in the squad, illustrating that his impact extends beyond the pitch.
Slot’s remarks about Endo highlight a crucial aspect of modern football: the importance of squad depth and player mentality. A player who maintains high performance levels in training, regardless of game time, can be invaluable to a team’s overall success. Endo embodies this ideal, demonstrating that the spirit of teamwork and reliability can often outweigh sheer playing time.
Versatility: A Key Asset
Another factor contributing to Endo’s importance is his versatility. He played a portion of the season as a center-back, showcasing adaptability that can be a game-changer for a team facing injury crises or tactical shifts. His standout performance in a League Cup match against Southampton exemplified this versatility, where he excelled in a libero-like role, further endearing him to fans and coaching staff alike.
The data from his performances indicate a well-rounded skill set, particularly in passing, tackling, and intercepting—traits essential for a midfielder tasked with stabilizing the game. The statistics surrounding his contributions have garnered attention on social media, highlighting his capability to perform effectively even with limited minutes.
Looking Ahead: Endo’s Future with Liverpool
As the 2024/25 season comes to a close, thoughts turn to Endo’s role in the upcoming season. Given his demonstrated reliability and the need for depth in the squad, it is likely that he will see increased minutes moving forward. His ability to step up in critical situations and adapt to various roles makes him an asset to the team.
Fans have already begun to view Endo as a cult hero, and the affection he has garnered is a testament to his character and contributions. As Liverpool aims to maintain its championship status, players like Wataru Endo will be essential in navigating the challenges ahead. The upcoming season presents an opportunity for him to solidify his position within the squad while continuing to be the dependable figure he has proven himself to be.