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When Arne Slot took the helm at Liverpool in 2024, Wataru Endo’s Anfield career seemed to be hanging by a thread.

The 32-year-old Japan international, who had been a regular starter under Jurgen Klopp, found himself on the fringes of the squad in the early stages of the 2024/25 season.

Reports widely circulated that Endo was among the players Slot was considering offloading as part of his squad restructuring.

This marked a dramatic shift from the previous season, where Endo had featured in the starting lineup 24 times under Klopp’s management.

Slot’s aggressive pursuit of Martin Zubimendi during the summer transfer window further underlined the new manager’s apparent lack of faith in Endo as a first-choice option for the defensive midfield role.

But the Japan international has earned the faith of the Dutchman gradually,  with Slot typicall deploying him as a “closer,” – 17 of his 23 appearances coming off the bench – often in high-pressure moments to secure results.

Despite limited minutes (713 total in all competitions), Endo’s composure in these cameos gradually reshaped his standing.

His real moment of recognition came during a 19-minute stint against Wolves in February 2025, where he stabilized midfield and helped preserve a 2-1 lead.

Slot later hailed Endo’s ability to “show up” regardless of playing time, praising his mental fortitude.

And speaking on the latest episode of the Red Machine podcast released by Kodansha, Endo revealed that Slot had told him how helpful he has been to the side:

“Recently he [Slot] told me what I have done this season was really amazing and really helpful for the team,” Endo said.

“Because even if I don’t have chance to play a lot, when I play on the pitch, I always try to give 100 percent to help the team.

My manager is really thankful for that.”

He added that he has also seen support from the Liverpool fans on social media:

“Even this season when I play on the pitch, the Liverpool fans always try to support me and they always comment on my Instagram or X,” he continued

“So, I really feel like they support me?

I think the fans love me!”

It’s fair to say that the 32-year-old is right to think that, as he has grown into a cult hero on Merseyside, having not been at the club too long.

Endo recently led Japan to qualification for the 2026 World Cup this March international break.

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