Liverpool’s injury troubles have deepened, with Wataru Endo becoming the latest player ruled out through injury. The Japanese midfielder has suffered a hamstring problem, adding to Arne Slot’s growing list of fitness concerns in what has already been a challenging start to his time at Anfield.
The Reds have battled multiple injuries since the start of the season, disrupting momentum and forcing constant tactical adjustments. Jeremie Frimpong, Alexis Mac Allister, and Curtis Jones have all faced brief spells out, but the more severe losses — including Alisson Becker’s hamstring injury against Galatasaray — have left lasting effects.
Without Alisson, Liverpool’s defense has looked less assured. Backup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has shown promise but lacks the authority and leadership of his senior counterpart. To make matters worse, promising defender Giovanni Leoni suffered an ACL tear on his debut against Southampton, sidelining him for the season.
Endo’s setback, reported by Japan’s Jiji.com, occurred after the Chelsea match and forced him to withdraw from international duty. The timing is unfortunate, with a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester United approaching on October 19.
Since joining from Stuttgart in 2023, Endo has quietly become one of Liverpool’s most reliable players. Initially seen as a stop-gap option, his tactical intelligence, work rate, and composure have made him a key figure in Slot’s midfield setup. His absence could force Slot to rethink his strategy, possibly moving Mac Allister deeper or relying more on Curtis Jones and Ryan Gravenberch — a shift that could affect the team’s attacking balance.
Liverpool’s squad depth has come under scrutiny, especially in defensive and midfield positions. The club’s medical team continues to assess Endo’s recovery timeline, though hamstring injuries are unpredictable, particularly for players over 30.
Despite the setbacks, optimism remains within the camp. Slot’s calm approach has helped keep morale high, while Liverpool’s history of resilience offers hope. Under Jürgen Klopp, the Reds often turned adversity into strength — and Slot now faces a similar test.
With key fixtures in both the Premier League and Champions League ahead, the coming weeks will reveal how well Liverpool can adapt. If Endo’s recovery is swift, the Reds could emerge stronger and more united from this latest challenge
