Wataru Endo is likely to miss the rest of the season after the Liverpool midfielder underwent surgery on his ankle, with hopes of returning for the World Cup.
Wataru Endo ankle surgery: Full details and return plan
Surgery confirmed: Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu has confirmed that Wataru Endo underwent surgery on his left ankle in Japan in late-February.
Season over: The 33-year-old is expected to miss the remainder of Liverpool’s campaign as he begins a lengthy rehabilitation process.
World Cup race: The primary goal for both club and country is to have the Japan captain fit for the 2026 World Cup, which kicks off on June 11 in North America.
Endo was stretchered off in the 1-0 win over Sunderland on February 11 with Arne Slot providing a downbeat assessment on the 33-year-old’s injury.
Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu has now confirmed Endo underwent surgery on his left ankle in Japan at the end of February.
SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - Wednesday, February 11, 2026: A stretcher on the pitch for Liverpool's Wataru End? as he lies injured during the FA Premier League match between Sunderland AFC and Liverpool FC at the Stadium of Light. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
In quotes carried by Nikkan Sports, Moriyasu revealed: “I’ve heard that he had surgery.
“I’ve heard that it went well, but I don’t know the details of how it went.
“The plan is for him to be ready in time for the World Cup, so the rehabilitation process from surgery onwards is being considered.
“In order to play in the World Cup, he, the club, and we all share the same understanding.”
DOHA, QATAR - Sunday, November 27, 2022: Japan's Wataru Endo during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group E match between Japan and Costa Rica at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium. Costa Rica won 1-0. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
That would indicate that Endo is likely to miss the majority of the campaign’s run-in if not the remainder of the season, with the World Cup kicking off in the United States, Canada and Mexico on June 11.
With just over three months to go until the tournament kicks off, it will clearly be touch-and-go whether the Japan captain is cleared in time.
But now 33 and nearing the end of his career it will be a priority target for Endo, who has already lost his place as a guaranteed starter under Moriyasu.
Liverpool are yet to confirm the surgery or the length of Endo’s layoff but Slot will likely be question on his availability following reports from Japan.
Will Wataru Endo play again for Liverpool?
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Wednesday, October 29, 2025: Liverpool's Wataru Endo during the Football League Cup 4th Round match between Liverpool FC and Crystal Palace FC at Anfield. Palace won 3-0. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
Endo will enter the final year of his contract this summer and it remains to be seen if he has a future under Slot.
While used regularly throughout the Dutchman’s first campaign, earning a reputation as a ‘closer’ as he came off the bench for 25 of his 32 appearances, he has featured more sporadically throughout 2025/26.
His outing against Sunderland – also as a substitute – was his 12th game of the season, with only three starts and a total of 455 minutes on the pitch.
Japan are set to play friendlies away to Scotland and England next month as part of their preparations for the World Cup, where they will face the Netherlands, Tunisia and one of Ukraine, Sweden, Poland or Albania in Group F.
FAQ: Wataru Endo Ankle Injury & Surgery Recovery
What is Wataru Endo’s injury and did he have surgery?
While Liverpool have been tight-lipped, Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu confirmed Endo underwent surgery on his left ankle in late February. Reports suggest the injury – sustained against Sunderland – involved a forced eversion, raising concerns over a high-ankle sprain or a lower-leg (fibula) fracture.
How long is the recovery time for ankle surgery in football?
For a professional athlete, a successful return usually follows a 3 to 4-month timeline.
• Weeks 0-6: Non-weight-bearing; focus on bone/ligament healing and reducing swelling.
• Weeks 6-12: Gradual weight-bearing in a protective boot and initiation of physical therapy.
• Month 3+: Return to running and sport-specific drills once full strength is regained.
When will Wataru Endo return to play for Liverpool?
It is highly unlikely he features again this season. With the surgery taking place at the end of February, a 12-week minimum recovery pushes his return to late May – coinciding with the final day of the Premier League season (May 24).
Will Wataru Endo be fit for the 2026 World Cup?
This is the priority target. Since the tournament starts on June 11, Endo has roughly 14 weeks to prove his fitness. While he should be physically healed, his biggest challenge will be a total lack of match sharpness heading into Group F.