The 33-year-old Japan international, making a rare start (his first in the Premier League this season) and deployed at right-back to plug gaps in Liverpool’s injury-ravaged defense, was stretchered off in the second half after an awkward twist to his left ankle while making a clearance.
The incident occurred midway through the second period when Endo slid in to block a dangerous cross aimed at the back post. His foot appeared to get caught in the turf, leading to a forced eversion of the ankle under his body weight—a mechanism that has raised immediate concerns among medical experts for a high-ankle sprain (syndesmosis injury), possible ligament damage, or even a lower-leg fracture (such as the fibula). Endo initially tried to continue but collapsed in pain, receiving treatment on the pitch—including gas and air—before being carefully carried off amid applause from both sets of supporters, including Sunderland fans who showed genuine class in the moment.
Post-match, Liverpool head coach Arne Slot delivered a somber update that has sent shockwaves through the fanbase. Speaking to TNT Sports and in his press conference, Slot said: “Yes, it’s a serious one. How serious we don’t know yet because it still has to be assessed tomorrow, but it doesn’t look good.” He later added that he expects Endo to be sidelined “for quite a long time” or even “a long, long time,” emphasizing the uncertainty pending scans and further medical evaluation on February 12. While no official doctor’s report has confirmed a “career-ending” diagnosis as of the latest updates (with assessments ongoing), the bleak tone from Slot—combined with the nature of the injury—has fueled widespread fear among supporters that this could spell the end for the versatile veteran’s playing days, especially given his age and the demands of recovery from severe ankle/foot issues.
Endo, who joined Liverpool from Stuttgart in 2023 and has been a reliable squad player (often praised for his work rate and leadership despite limited starts), has already dealt with injuries this season. This latest blow deepens Liverpool’s ongoing crisis at right-back and in midfield depth—Endo became the seventh different player to start at right-back this campaign, highlighting the defensive woes under Slot. The team has been without several key options, and losing Endo for an extended period (potentially 8-12 weeks or more if surgery is required for a high-ankle sprain or fracture) is a massive setback as they chase a top-four finish and push in other competitions.
Fans and teammates are reeling in disbelief. Social media is flooded with messages of support for “Wata,” with many expressing heartbreak over the emotional scenes of him leaving the pitch in tears and covering his face. Former players and pundits like Michael Owen have voiced sympathy, noting the cruelty of such an injury after Endo showed fight and grit in a tough away fixture. Sunderland supporters were commended for their respectful applause, underscoring the respect Endo commands across the league.
The victory itself—sealed by Virgil van Dijk’s header from a Mohamed Salah corner—provided three vital points, snapping inconsistencies and boosting morale. However, the overriding emotion post-match was concern for Endo rather than celebration. Liverpool now await scan results, which could clarify whether this is a long-term absence (e.g., torn ligaments or syndesmosis requiring surgery) or something less severe. In the worst-case scenarios circulating among physio analyses and fan discussions, a full recovery might prove challenging at Endo’s stage of career, amplifying fears of an enforced retirement.
This news casts a dark shadow over what was otherwise a resilient performance from the Reds. The club, Slot, and the squad will rally around Endo during his recovery, but the immediate focus shifts to managing a depleted squad in upcoming fixtures. Get well soon, Wataru—Liverpool fans worldwide are hoping for the best possible outcome from what has been a heartbreaking turn of events.
