Wataru Endo’s Future at Liverpool: Jamie Carragher Weighs In

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has hinted that Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo might be on his way out of Anfield as early as the January transfer window. Speaking on Sky Sports, Carragher shared his thoughts on the 30-year-old’s limited impact at Liverpool and speculated about his future.

While Liverpool’s summer transfer activity had them in search of a new defensive midfielder, they fell short of sealing a deal for their top targets. Although the likes of Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister have filled in deeper roles, Carragher believes Endo’s days at Liverpool could be numbered, particularly if a specialist No.6 arrives in future windows.

Endo Struggling for Minutes

Since his Arne Slot’s arrival, Wataru Endo has found it difficult to cement a place in Liverpool’s starting XI, especially in Premier League games. Endo has struggled for regular game time, a factor that might lead to his departure. Carragher suggested that Liverpool might consider cutting their losses in January, especially with the team’s evolving tactical demands under Arne Slot.

“I’m not sure he’s [Endo] the type of profile that Arne Slot looks for in that position,” Carragher said. “You talk about the No.6 they were looking at, and we all know that guy was Martin Zubimendi. He’s a complete contrast to the type of player that Endo is.”

Carragher’s Zubimendi Comparison

In his analysis, Carragher highlighted how Endo’s profile contrasts sharply with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, the player Liverpool had pursued during the summer window. Zubimendi, known for his more physical and defensive presence, seems to be the type of holding midfielder the Reds need, and his arrival would have spelled an early exit for Endo.

“If Liverpool would have brought in Zubimendi, then there’s a good chance that Endo might have moved on in the last transfer window,” Carragher speculated. “That might be something that happens in January.”