Wataru Endo has commenced his pre-season training schedule at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre earlier than most of his teammates. The Japan captain’s early return follows his exclusion from Japan’s World Cup squad, a decision attributed to fitness concerns after a serious ankle injury.
Endo had not featured for Liverpool since sustaining an ankle injury during a 1-0 victory against Sunderland on February 11. Despite this, he returned to international duty last month, playing 45 minutes in Japan’s warm-up match against Iceland on May 31. However, head coach Hajime Moriyasu ultimately decided to omit him from the World Cup squad, which is competing across Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
Endo’s International Retirement and Club Future
Following his omission from the national squad, Endo announced his retirement from international football via social media. In his message, he expressed that he had done everything possible since his injury and had no regrets, despite the frustration of not participating in the World Cup. He also conveyed pride in the team’s development since the Qatar World Cup and stated his intention to support the national team as a fan.
Endo posted an image on Thursday from the club’s training base in Kirkby, captioned ‘Day 1’, signifying the start of his pre-season. The majority of his Liverpool colleagues are scheduled to return on Monday, July 13. His early start provides an opportunity to impress new head coach Andoni Iraola, who joined the club after Arne Slot’s departure on May 30, 2026.
Iraola faces the task of reshaping a squad that, despite its quality, has some uncertainties. With key midfielders like Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch away at the World Cup, Iraola will have a reduced group for the initial pre-season period. This situation could offer Endo a chance to secure more game time.
Endo, who is 33, was signed from Stuttgart for £16m in 2023. Initially seen as a short-term solution, he contributed to both EFL Cup and Premier League successes. His contract extends until 2027, meaning Liverpool will soon need to make a decision regarding his future at the club.
Pre-season Tour and Squad Dynamics
Endo is expected to join the squad for their pre-season tour of the United States, which begins on July 20. During the tour, Liverpool will play friendly matches against Sunderland, Wrexham, and Leeds United in Nashville, New York, and Chicago.
The midfielder’s position at Liverpool is described as delicate. While he is considered a reliable squad option due to his attitude, experience, and tactical discipline, the club is also reportedly considering midfield additions such as Lamine Camara and Alex Scott. Additionally, there have been discussions about potential exits for players like Mac Allister and Curtis Jones.
For Iraola, pre-season will be crucial in assessing his squad. Endo’s defensive instincts, professionalism, and tactical obedience are qualities that a new head coach can utilise to establish standards. Although he may not be central to Liverpool’s long-term rebuild, he could still play a practical role in a squad aiming for consistency.
The upcoming summer period will be pivotal in determining whether Endo remains part of Liverpool’s plans or becomes part of a squad turnover. Japan’s World Cup campaign concluded in the last-32 round when Brazil secured a 2-1 victory.
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Source: liverpoolecho.co.uk
Adam Rutherford is a Senior Football Correspondent at News-UK. He spent his early career filing match reports across the North West. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Manchester Metropolitan University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Manchester, he coaches a youth team and watches grassroots football. “Every transfer window hides a dozen real stories.”
