Liverpool were dealt another defensive setback after Wataru Endo picked up an injury during their Premier League clash with Sunderland on February 11.
The Japan international was clearly in pain and had to be taken off on a stretcher in the second half at the Stadium of Light, where the Reds secured a 1-0 victory.
Endo had been deployed as an emergency right-back due to the absence of injured Jeremie Frimpong and suspended Dominik Szoboszlai, who has performed well in that role this season.
Early indications suggest Endo’s injury could be serious enough to threaten his chances of featuring at the World Cup. The Sporting News provides the latest update.
Wataru Endo injury update
In the 70th minute of Liverpool’s Premier League encounter with Sunderland, Endo seemed to twist awkwardly after his left foot became caught in the turf.
Although he briefly continued playing to help defensively, he soon needed extended medical attention on the pitch, including oxygen support.
Endo was eventually taken off on a stretcher with his leg strapped in a brace and received applause from the supporters inside the Stadium of Light.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Liverpool manager Arne Slot said: “It doesn’t look positive. I think he could be sidelined for quite a while again.”
Could Wataru Endo miss the 2026 World Cup?
While official details regarding the nature of Endo’s injury remain limited, its apparent seriousness raises concerns that he may miss the World Cup.
The tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico kicks off on June 11. Japan are scheduled to play their opening match on June 14 against the Netherlands at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
As Japan’s captain, Endo would almost certainly have been named in Hajime Moriyasu’s final squad despite his limited minutes with Liverpool this season.
Wataru Endo injury history
Endo had only just returned from an ankle problem that kept him out of seven games. The 33-year-old was also sidelined in October 2025 with a hamstring injury, which ruled him out of Japan’s friendlies against Brazil and Paraguay.
Despite these recent setbacks, his overall injury record throughout his top-level career has generally been strong.
