Liverpool Star Midfielder Pulls Out of International Squad After Suffering Injury Blow

Liverpool's midfield player Wataru Endo has been withdrawn from Japan's national team squad following an injury sustained during Saturday's loss to Chelsea, according to confirmation from the Japan Football Federation.

The 32-year-old experienced player, who serves as his nation's captain but holds a reserve role at his club, entered the match as a substitute for the closing four minutes in the 2–1 defeat—marking his fourth Premier League appearance this season and his third lasting under five minutes.

Endo completed the remaining portion of the match without any visible issues, however Japan has now announced that he reported an injury following the game and has subsequently been withdrawn from their squad.

The specific nature of Endo's injury remains undisclosed, as does its severity, leaving uncertainty about his availability when Liverpool resume domestic competition with Manchester United's visit on Oct. 19.

Considering his position as a peripheral player under Slot, a possible absence for Endo wouldn't typically raise major concerns, but his injury occurs soon after the Reds manager confirmed that center-back Ibrahima Konaté also sustained an issue against Chelsea.

Wataru Endo's 2025-26 Statistics

Endo's adaptability makes him a viable choice for Slot in central defense, where Giovanni Leoni is also sidelined with injury, so any prolonged absence for both Endo and Konaté could pose a substantial challenge for the defending champions.

Additionally, goalkeeper Alisson remains unavailable after suffering a hamstring injury that is projected to keep him out for as long as six weeks, while young midfielder Stefan Bajčetić is gradually returning to action following a difficult 18-month period marked by multiple injury setbacks.

The international break arrives at an opportune moment for Liverpool, who will appreciate the time to concentrate on player rehabilitation. Slot will also welcome the opportunity to work on resolving a downturn that has cost them their position at the summit of the Premier League table.

Slot has openly maintained that Liverpool have simply been unlucky in what amounts to a matter of "fine margins", but club captain Virgil van Dijk has highlighted the psychological difficulties created by an exceptionally demanding summer off the field for Liverpool.