Liverpool’s midfielder Wataru Endo has been officially ruled out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to injury. The 33-year-old sustained a severe ankle injury during Liverpool’s 1-0 victory against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light in February, which prematurely ended his club season.
There had been optimism that Endo would recover in time to feature in the World Cup, where he was set to captain Japan. However, journalist Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed that the midfielder will not participate in the tournament. It remains uncertain whether this is a recurrence of his previous injury or a new setback.
Japan’s squad will now see Shuto Machino taking Endo’s place for the World Cup campaign.
This development means Endo will spend the summer recovering and aiming to return fully fit for Liverpool’s pre-season training, scheduled to begin in early July.
Although there were earlier reports suggesting Endo might leave Anfield this summer, it now seems probable that the experienced midfielder will remain with the club and complete the final year of his contract as a valuable squad member.
Endo featured in only 11 matches across all competitions last season, but he will be determined to secure increased playing time under Liverpool’s new head coach, Andoni Iraola.
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