Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo has been vocal about the contrasting coaching philosophies between his national team manager Hajime Moriyasu and Liverpool's new head coach Arne Slot. As captain of Japan, Endo is set to lead his country in their World Cup qualifier against Indonesia at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta. Despite his current challenges with limited playing time at Liverpool, Endo remains an essential player for Japan, demonstrating resilience and leadership on the international stage.
Since moving to Liverpool from Stuttgart in August 2023, Endo’s career trajectory has seen unexpected shifts. Initially, his transfer raised eyebrows, but under Jürgen Klopp, Endo found his rhythm, becoming a reliable fixture in the midfield. During his debut season, he made 43 appearances across all competitions, including 29 in the Premier League, solidifying his place in a demanding squad. However, the departure of Klopp and the arrival of Slot in the summer changed the dynamics. Slot’s approach has emphasized a more positionally rigid and precise system, favoring Dutch midfielder Ryan Gravenberch in central roles. As a result, Endo's game time has been limited to five substitute appearances in the current season, even as Liverpool has performed impressively, leading the Premier League by five points.
Endo highlighted how Moriyasu’s coaching style contrasts sharply with that of Slot. “With regards to attacking, you could say Slot is more positional – he's the kind of coach who's very precise about where each individual player should be positioned,” Endo noted. He praised Moriyasu for his adaptability, explaining that while the Japanese coach maintains a structural base, he allows players the freedom to build their play dynamically, switching formations as needed. This flexibility, which Endo likened to Klopp’s system from the previous season, has been crucial for Japan's success in navigating the demanding World Cup qualifiers.
Despite his limited club appearances, Endo dismissed concerns about his form impacting his role in the national team. “Of course, when you're not playing, people keep asking about your game sense or if it's affecting your performance,” he said. His commitment to intense training and maintaining top physical condition ensures he is match-ready when called upon by Moriyasu. As captain, he feels a heightened responsibility to lead by example and deliver high-level performances. “I’m not playing, but I’m training very hard to keep my condition, and as captain, I feel I have to show a high level of performance for the national team,” Endo asserted.
Endo’s perseverance speaks to his dedication both to Liverpool and the Japanese national team. While his club struggles have posed challenges, they have not dampened his spirits or his drive to excel. He remains determined to perform with confidence for Japan and understands that with the spotlight on him, he must consistently meet expectations. “I know that when I’m not playing, everybody is looking closely at my performance, and so I have to maintain a high level and make sure I give 100 percent,” he added.
The match against Indonesia will be a chance for Endo to showcase his leadership and skill, further proving that despite obstacles at the club level, he is still a formidable force on the international stage. Japan, aiming for their eighth consecutive World Cup appearance, will rely on his experience and unwavering commitment as they continue their qualification campaign.
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