Wataru Endō: Biography, Salary, Net Worth, Career, And Transfer History

If there’s one thing football teaches us, it’s that the game doesn’t care where you come from — talent, determination, and grit will always find their way to the biggest stages. And Wataru Endō, Liverpool’s no-nonsense midfield general from Japan, is living proof.

When Liverpool snapped him up in 2023, a lot of fans didn’t know much about him. Some even raised eyebrows — “Who’s this guy replacing Fabinho?” But fast-forward, and Endō has already made himself a fan favorite. Calm on the ball, tough in the tackle, and tireless in his running, he’s the kind of player every coach loves.

But who exactly is Wataru Endō? How did he rise from the pitches of Japan to playing in the Premier League? What’s his salary, net worth, and transfer story? Let’s take a deep dive.

Early Life and Background

Wataru Endō was born on 9 February 1993 in Totsuka-ku, Yokohama, Japan. Like many kids in Japan, football wasn’t just a hobby — it was a passion. Growing up in a country where baseball often dominated the sports scene, Endō found his joy in football.

From a young age, he stood out not just because of his skills, but because of his discipline. Coaches described him as hardworking, reliable, and always willing to learn. That “never-give-up” mindset would later become the hallmark of his game.

Unlike some footballers who burst onto the scene as teenage sensations, Endō’s journey was more of a slow and steady climb. He built his career step by step — moving from local academies to professional football in Japan before venturing into Europe.

Club Career Journey

1. The Beginning at Shonan Bellmare (2010–2015)

Endō’s professional career kicked off in 2010 when he joined Shonan Bellmare, a club in Japan’s J.League. At just 17, he was already showing maturity beyond his years. Over the course of five years, he became a dependable player, featuring regularly and gaining valuable experience.

While he wasn’t yet a superstar, this period shaped him into the resilient midfielder we know today. He learned how to handle pressure, maintain consistency, and lead by example.

2. Urawa Red Diamonds (2016–2018)

In 2016, Endō made the move to Urawa Red Diamonds, one of Japan’s biggest and most prestigious clubs. Here, his career really took off. He wasn’t just another squad player anymore; he became a key figure in midfield.

His biggest highlight at Urawa came in 2017, when the club won the AFC Champions League. Endō played a crucial role in their campaign, and this success put his name on the international map. European scouts began to notice him, and it was only a matter of time before he made the leap abroad.

3. Move to Europe: Sint-Truiden (2018–2019)

In 2018, Endō took a bold step, moving to Sint-Truiden in Belgium’s Pro League. For many Japanese players, Europe can be a tough adjustment — the pace, physicality, and culture are all different. But Endō adapted quickly.

Although his stint in Belgium lasted just one year, it was a stepping stone. It showed he could survive outside Japan and handle the demands of European football.

4. VfB Stuttgart (2019–2023)

Endō’s career truly blossomed when he joined VfB Stuttgart in Germany. Initially arriving on loan in 2019, his performances were so good that Stuttgart made the deal permanent.

Over four seasons, he became the heartbeat of their midfield. He was consistent, hardworking, and even wore the captain’s armband. Fans adored him for his relentless energy and commitment. By the time he left, Stuttgart supporters described him as a “warrior” — the kind of player who gave everything on the pitch.

5. Liverpool (2023–Present)

In August 2023, Liverpool surprised everyone by signing Endō from Stuttgart. At 30 years old, many thought his big European moves were behind him. But Jürgen Klopp, known for spotting hardworking gems, knew exactly what he was getting.

Endō wasn’t brought in to score flashy goals or grab headlines. Instead, he was signed to bring balance, grit, and stability to Liverpool’s midfield — a role he has embraced perfectly. His calmness under pressure, ability to break up play, and smart distribution have made him a reliable option in Klopp’s setup.

Liverpool fans now chant his name, appreciating his humble but crucial contributions. He’s not just a stop-gap signing; he’s proven he belongs in the Premier League.

International Career with Japan

Endō’s story wouldn’t be complete without talking about his international career. He made his debut for the Japan national team in 2015 and has since been a regular fixture.

He represented Japan in major tournaments like the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Known for his leadership qualities, he often captains the side and is considered one of the senior figures in the squad.

His ability to inspire teammates and remain composed under pressure has earned him respect not just in Japan, but worldwide.

Transfer History

Let’s break down Wataru Endō’s career moves in a timeline fashion:

• 2010: Starts professional career at Shonan Bellmare (Japan).

• 2016: Moves to Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan).

• 2018: Signs for Sint-Truiden (Belgium).

• 2019: Loan to VfB Stuttgart (Germany), later becomes permanent.

• 2023: Transfers to Liverpool (England).

His Liverpool move reportedly cost around €19 million, which many now consider a bargain for the quality he brings.

Salary and Net Worth

When it comes to money, Endō isn’t in the same bracket as football’s mega-earners like Cristiano Ronaldo or Kevin De Bruyne. But his financial success is nothing to sneeze at.

At Liverpool, Endō reportedly earns around £50,000 per week, which translates to about £2.6 million per year. For a player who worked his way up from Japanese football, that’s a huge achievement.

As for his net worth, estimates put it at around $10 million as of 2025. This figure includes his salaries, bonuses, endorsements, and investments. While he’s not flaunting supercars or private jets, Endō lives comfortably and is admired for his modest lifestyle.

Playing Style: Why Endō is Special

Wataru Endō isn’t the flashiest player, but his qualities are priceless:

• Ball Winning: He’s excellent at intercepting passes and breaking up opposition play.

• Calmness: Even under pressure, he doesn’t panic — a vital trait in midfield.

• Work Rate: He runs tirelessly, covering every blade of grass.

• Leadership: Whether at club or international level, he leads by example.

If you’re looking for Hollywood goals, Endō might not be your guy. But if you want a midfield warrior who makes sure the stars can shine, he’s perfect.

Legacy and Inspiration

One of the most inspiring parts of Endō’s story is how he proves that success doesn’t always come overnight. He wasn’t a teenage wonderkid playing for Real Madrid at 18. Instead, he climbed the ladder steadily — Japan, Belgium, Germany, and finally England.

For young Japanese players dreaming of Europe, Endō is living proof that hard work pays off. For Liverpool fans, he’s the kind of player who embodies Klopp’s philosophy: humility, effort, and team spirit.

Conclusion

Wataru Endō’s journey from Yokohama’s local pitches to the bright lights of Anfield is nothing short of remarkable. He may not have the superstar status of a Mohamed Salah or Virgil van Dijk, but he’s carved his own legacy as a dependable, hardworking midfielder.

With his steady performances, leadership qualities, and humble nature, Endō is more than just a footballer — he’s an inspiration. And as he continues his career at Liverpool and with the Japanese national team, his story reminds us that sometimes the unsung heroes are the ones who make the biggest difference.