Arne Slot’s Troubles Grow as Midfielder Added to Injury List

It was another difficult day for Liverpool fans as news broke that Wataru Endo had suffered a hamstring injury, becoming the latest name to join the Reds’ growing list of absentees. For manager Arne Slot, who is still in the early stages of his tenure at Anfield, this setback could not have come at a worse time. The Dutchman’s first months in charge have already been defined by a series of injuries that have tested his tactical flexibility and squad depth.

Since the season kicked off, Liverpool have struggled to maintain a fully fit squad. Minor injuries to key players such as Jeremie Frimpong, Alexis Mac Allister, and Curtis Jones disrupted the team’s rhythm, but it was the more severe setbacks that have had lasting consequences. The biggest of these was the loss of Alisson Becker, the club’s undisputed number one goalkeeper. The Brazilian suffered a hamstring injury during Liverpool’s Champions League clash with Galatasaray, leaving a massive void between the posts and depriving the defence of its most reassuring presence.

Without Alisson, Liverpool’s backline has appeared more vulnerable. Caoimhin Kelleher, while a talented deputy, lacks the commanding aura and leadership of his senior counterpart. Arne Slot, who places great emphasis on structure and defensive stability, now faces the challenge of keeping his system intact without the man who has been a rock at the back for years.

As if that wasn’t enough, young centre-back Giovanni Leoni also suffered a cruel blow. The promising Italian defender, who joined from Parma, tore his ACL during his debut against Southampton in the EFL Cup. What should have been a dream moment turned into a nightmare, as Leoni now faces a long road to recovery that could keep him sidelined for the entire season. Slot, who values the integration of young talents, has often spoken about Leoni’s potential to become a star, making this loss even more painful.

Now, Liverpool have been hit yet again — this time with Endo’s injury. Reports from Japan’s Jiji.com confirmed that the midfielder was forced to withdraw from international duty due to a hamstring problem picked up after coming on as a substitute against Chelsea. For a player known for his discipline and consistency, the timing of this injury could not be worse, especially with a crucial fixture against Manchester United looming on October 19.

Endo has quietly become one of the most reliable figures in Liverpool’s midfield since his arrival from Stuttgart in 2023. Initially viewed as a short-term solution, the Japanese captain has defied all expectations, becoming a vital component of the team’s structure. His positional awareness, tireless work ethic, and calm presence under pressure have made him a fan favourite. In many ways, he’s the glue that holds Liverpool’s midfield together — breaking up play, recycling possession, and allowing creative players to flourish.

Arne Slot’s system heavily depends on control in midfield, and Endo has been the anchor of that control. His absence will force Slot to rethink his approach. Alexis Mac Allister may be required to drop deeper, a role he has played before but one that limits his attacking contributions. Curtis Jones and Ryan Gravenberch may also be called upon, while Dominik Szoboszlai could be tasked with more defensive responsibilities — something that might affect the team’s offensive balance.

Liverpool’s growing list of injuries also highlights the squad’s lack of depth in certain areas. While the Reds boast an abundance of attacking talent, there are fewer like-for-like replacements in deeper roles. This issue has been magnified by Alisson’s injury, and now Endo’s absence only adds to Slot’s concerns. The Dutch coach will be hoping the club’s medical staff can manage a swift recovery, but hamstring problems are notoriously unpredictable — especially for players in their 30s.

Behind the scenes, Liverpool’s mood remains cautiously optimistic. The medical department is monitoring Endo’s progress closely, and Slot has been proactive in adjusting training intensity to prevent further setbacks. The coach’s calm and analytical personality is helping keep morale high at Melwood, even as he faces difficult choices about squad rotation and player management.

Endo’s injury doesn’t just hurt Liverpool on the pitch — it affects the dressing room dynamic as well. He’s respected for his quiet leadership and professionalism, often seen mentoring younger players and setting the tone during tough stretches. Losing that influence, even temporarily, could have a psychological impact on the group.

Liverpool fans, ever resilient, will be hoping for good news soon. The memory of past injury crises — from Virgil van Dijk’s long-term layoff to Diogo Jota’s recurring setbacks — serves as a reminder of how adversity often brings out the team’s best spirit. Under Jurgen Klopp, the Reds learned how to fight through difficult times, and now Arne Slot faces a similar test of resolve.

The coming weeks will determine a lot about Liverpool’s season. The team remains competitive in the Premier League and Champions League, but with fixtures piling up, fatigue and rotation will play crucial roles. Slot’s ability to adapt tactically — something he excelled at during his time at Feyenoord — will be key to maintaining momentum.

Endo’s injury is another bump in what has already been a turbulent start to the campaign, but Liverpool have faced worse and recovered stronger. For now, Slot will rely on his squad’s unity and the club’s famous fighting spirit to navigate this period. If Endo’s absence is short-lived, Liverpool could emerge from this test even more cohesive and determined.

As the countdown to the Manchester United clash continues, fans will be anxiously watching team updates. Endo’s presence could be decisive in that high-stakes encounter, and Liverpool will do everything possible to get their dependable midfield engine back on the pitch. Because in moments like these, leadership and calm — two qualities Endo embodies perfectly — make all the difference.