The Reds may be unbeaten in their last six games, beating Tottenham 2-1 away from home on Saturday, but injuries are becoming a concern.
Wataru Endo Injury Update: A Quick Look
• Mid-January return: The Japan captain is expected to be sidelined until at least mid-January after an incident ankle injury previously suffered during the 3-3 draw at Leeds.
• Minutes in midfield: Despite Liverpool’s injury crisis, Endo has played as normal 44 minutes of Premier League football this season, behind Ryan Gravenberch and Curtis Jones.
• Emerging talent: Endo’s absence has opened the door for the 18-year-old Trey Nyoniwho made his Premier League debut in the 2-1 win at Tottenham.
• Future uncertain: With his contract running until 2027 but playing time limited, speculation continues as to whether the 32-year-old will remain at Anfield beyond the summer.
Alexander Isak limped off worryingly after scoring Spurs’ opening goal, with a lengthy spell out of the team looming.
Conor Bradley also left, while Giovanni Leoni and Cody Gakpo are already missing, as well as experienced midfielder Endo.
When will Wataru Endo return to Liverpool?
According to journalist David Lynch on SubstackLiverpool will be without the Japanese captain until mid-January after not playing since the 3-3 draw at Leeds earlier this month.
Arne Slot’s use of Endo has frustrated some Liverpool fans, with the 32-year-old’s past experience proving important.
He has played just 44 minutes in the Premier League this season across five cameo appearances, suggesting his boss sees no future for him at Anfield.
It remains to be seen whether Endo will leave next summer – he is under contract until 2027 – but his current absence could provide Trey Nyoni with an opportunity over the holidays and New Year.
Could Wataru Endo’s absence allow Trey Nyoni to shine?
The 18-year-old made his Premier League debut in Saturday’s win over Spurs, replacing Florian Wirtz deep into stoppage time in a proud moment.
Nyoni is 14 years younger than Endo, so Slot could see him as a natural heir to his Liverpool squad after discussing his and Rio Ngumoha’s chances last summer.
“They have an incredible opportunity to work and be around players like Virgil van Dijk, Mo Salah and all these players every day, to see what they do to be ready to perform every three days,” Slot said.
“That is a step that these players definitely have to make, which is very normal when you are 16 or 17. It is already nice if they can play at a good level once a week and we just try to develop them as best as possible.
Liverpool midfielders’ Premier League minutes this season
| Player | Performances | PL minutes |
|---|---|---|
| Dominik Szoboszlai | 17 | 1,523 |
| Ryan Gravenberch | 15 | 1,322 |
| Alexis MacAllister | 16 | 1,101 |
| Florian Wirtz | 16 | 1,094 |
| Curtis Jones | 15 | 728 |
| Wataru Endo | 5 | 44 |
“But we also have to look after them because new players coming in aged 24, 23, 22 already experience that the intensity levels are quite high, let alone players aged 16 and going through the academy.
“So we are aware of that, but it has been a promising start [Rio]as well as for Trey Nyoni.”
Admittedly, Nyoni is unlikely to play a prominent role for Liverpool unless there are many injuries in midfield, but the FA Cup third round against Barnsley could be a great opportunity to shine.
Frequently asked questions
What is the latest Wataru Endo injury news?
Wataru Endo is currently recovering from an ankle injury and is expected to be unavailable until selection mid-January 2026.
How many minutes has Wataru Endo played this season?
The Japan international just managed it 44 minutes of Premier League action during five substitute appearances during the 2025/2026 season.
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