Liverpool Complete €19m Signing of Wataru Endo from Stuttgart
Liverpool has announced the signing of defensive midfielder Wataru Endo from Stuttgart in a deal worth around €19 million. The Japan international has put pen to paper on a four-year contract at Anfield.
The move comes after Liverpool’s failed attempts to secure the services of Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, who both chose to sign for Chelsea instead.
Expressing his delight at the signing, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp described Endo as a “really good player” and praised his experience both as a captain for Stuttgart and the Japanese national team. Klopp also highlighted Endo’s strong work ethic and attitude on the pitch.
Endo himself expressed his excitement at joining Liverpool, calling it a dream come true to play in the Premier League for one of the world’s biggest clubs. He emphasized his defensive abilities as a No. 6 and his commitment to organizing the team in the middle of the pitch.
Known primarily as a defensive midfielder, Endo also has the versatility to operate as a centre-back and right-back. He has been a consistent performer for Stuttgart, missing only three games in the past three seasons.
Liverpool was also attracted to Endo’s leadership skills, which will help fill the void left by the departures of experienced midfielders such as Jordan Henderson, James Milner, and Fabinho this summer. The addition of Endo will further strengthen Liverpool’s contingent of national team captains.
However, Endo’s availability for Liverpool’s upcoming game against Bournemouth will depend on whether he receives his work permit and international clearance in time.
The 50-time capped Japanese international represented his country in the 2022 World Cup, highlighting his quality at the international level.
German football expert Sebastian Stafford-Bloor believes that Liverpool fans have every reason to be excited about Endo’s signing. He describes him as a fierce competitor and a superb role model, which will be invaluable for Liverpool’s young midfielders. Stafford-Bloor also praises Endo’s tenacious ball-winning ability and relentless energy in screening his defense. Additionally, he notes that Endo possesses good passing skills and technique, making him a good fit for Liverpool’s technical style of play.
Furthermore, Klopp sees Endo as a potential leader at the club, with the departure of Milner and Henderson’s move to Saudi Arabia creating a leadership deficit. Endo’s respected presence among teammates past and present will help fill this void.
The decision to leave Stuttgart was a personal one for Endo, who is a father of five children and needed a special opportunity to uproot his family for a new challenge.
Liverpool fans will be eagerly awaiting Endo’s impact on the team as they continue their summer transfer window activity.
(Photo: Adam Pretty/Getty Images)