Even if Liverpool wins, Endo Wataru (32, Liverpool) cannot smile.
On the 28th (Korean time), Liverpool defeated Tottenham 5-1 in the 34th round of the 2024-25 Premier League held at Anfield, Liverpool. Liverpool (with 82 points) secured its second Premier League title overall.
Liverpool lifted the trophy for the first time in five years since the 2019-20 season under coach Jürgen Klopp. This is the club's second title since the Premier League was established in 1992.
Liverpool conceded a surprise first goal to Dominic Solanke in the 12th minute of the first half. After awakening, Liverpool saw consecutive goals from Luis Díaz, Alexis Mac Allister, and KODI, leading the first half 3-1.
The finish belonged to Salah. In the 18th minute of the second half, Salah scored the fourth goal and roared. Salah ran to the stands and took a celebratory photo with a fan's cellphone. Salah was happy about Liverpool's victory. Having scored his 28th goal, Salah secured the top scorer title. Tottenham crumbled, even suffering an own goal from Udogie.
Coach Slot was confident of victory, even substituting Japan national team captain Endo Wataru in the 31st minute of the second half when leading 5-1. This was to allow players who had not played much to enjoy the atmosphere of victory. Endo played for about 20 minutes.
Although he achieved victory with Liverpool, Endo cannot be too pleased. This season, Endo has only played 17 league matches, and all were as a substitute. Essentially, he has been excluded from Liverpool's squad. Endo also has zero attacking points.
The British media 'Rising the Cup' reported that "Endo is not in coach Arne Slot's plans for next season. This season, Endo was merely a candidate for the defeat handling and the League Cup. Slot was not satisfied with Endo's play. If a suitable offer comes in, there are thoughts of letting Endo go," indicating a possibility of his release.
Endo appealed to coach Slot with the characteristic diligence of Japanese players. However, that alone was not enough to survive in a big club. The media stated, "The Japan national team captain has been evaluated as diligent. However, it will be difficult for him to increase his playing time next year. Ultimately, something needs to happen in the transfer market concerning Endo's move."
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