Liverpool star ruled out of the World Cup in devastating injury blow

Photo: IMAGO
By Ben Pescod
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Wataru Endo Ruled Out of the World Cup Through Injury

Wataru Endo has been ruled out of the 2026 World Cup through injury. The 33-year-old’s club campaign came to an end after suffering a serious ankle injury in Liverpool’s 1-0 win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light back in February.

A return in time for the World Cup was anticipated and Endo was expected to captain his nation in the major tournament. However, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the midfielder has been ruled out. It has yet to be revealed whether this is a fresh injury blow or not.

Shuto Machino will replace him in the Japan squad.

That means that Endo will have the summer off before hopefully returning for Liverpool’s pre-season training at the start of July.

After previously being expected to leave this summer, it appears likely that the veteran midfielder will see out the final year of his contract as a squad player.

Endo made just 11 appearances across all competitions last season, but he will be hoping for more involvement under new head coach Andoni Iraola.

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