Liverpool may have walked away with all three points at the Stadium of Light⌠but it didnât feel like a victory.
Instead, the night ended with silence, concern, and a heartbreaking image no fan wanted to see â Wataru Endo in tears, carried off on a stretcher. đ
A Win Overshadowed by Pain
The Reds secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Sunderland thanks to a crucial header from Virgil van Dijk. But just moments after taking the lead, disaster struck.
Endo, who had been deployed at right-back due to Liverpoolâs growing injury list, twisted awkwardly while attempting to clear the ball. At first, it looked manageable. He tried to continue.
But within seconds, it became clear â something was seriously wrong. đ
Medical staff rushed in. Oxygen was administered. And after several tense minutes, the Japanese international was stretchered off the pitch, visibly emotional as supporters from both sides applauded him.
âIt Doesnât Look Goodâ â Slot Speaks Out
Liverpool manager Arne Slot didnât hide his concern after the match. His initial reaction? Worrying.
According to the Dutch coach, the injury âdoesnât look good,â and there are fears that Endo could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Scans are still pending, but early signs suggest this may not be a minor setback.
World Cup Hopes Hanging by a Thread đ
At 33, Endo knows opportunities at the World Cup are precious. This summerâs tournament was expected to be another major chapter in his international career with Japan.
Now? His participation is suddenly uncertain.
If the injury proves as serious as feared, it could rule him out of not only Liverpoolâs crucial fixtures â but also the biggest stage in world football.
Liverpoolâs Growing Injury Crisis đŹ
Endoâs setback adds to an already troubling list of defensive concerns for Liverpool. With multiple players sidelined, Slot has been forced into tactical reshuffles â and this latest blow only deepens the crisis.
The result against Sunderland keeps Liverpool pushing forward in their campaign⌠but the mood around the club is anything but celebratory.
What Happens Next?
Everything now depends on medical assessments in the coming days. Fans will anxiously await official confirmation.
For Endo, for Liverpool, and for Japan â this could be a defining moment.
One awkward twist. One painful fall. And suddenly, an entire season â and possibly a World Cup â hangs in the balance.
Stay tuned for updates as more information emerges. đâ˝
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