Wataru Endo has commenced his pre-season training at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre ahead of the main squad’s return. The midfielder’s early start follows his exclusion from Japan’s World Cup squad due to fitness concerns.

Endo, who had been recovering from a serious ankle injury sustained in a match against Sunderland on February 11, returned to international duty last month. He played for Japan in a warm-up match against Iceland on May 31, featuring for 45 minutes. However, head coach Hajime Moriyasu ultimately decided to omit him from the World Cup squad, which is taking place across Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

Following this decision, Endo announced his retirement from the national team via social media. He expressed pride in the team’s growth since the Qatar World Cup and stated he would now support Japan as a fan. Endo posted an image from Liverpool’s Kirkby training base on Thursday with the caption ‘Day 1’, indicating the start of his individual pre-season programme.

Pre-season and future at Anfield

The majority of Endo’s teammates are scheduled to return on Monday, July 13. He is expected to join the squad for their pre-season tour in the United States, which begins on July 20. During the tour, Andoni Iraola’s team will play friendly matches against Sunderland, Wrexham, and Leeds United in Nashville, New York, and Chicago.

The new head coach, Andoni Iraola, is set to assess his squad, particularly as several key midfielders, including Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch, are away at the FIFA World Cup. This situation may provide Endo with an opportunity to impress the new management. Despite not always being considered a prominent name, Endo has consistently been a reliable option for Liverpool.

Endo’s contract with Liverpool extends until 2027, bringing his future at the club under consideration. At 33 years old and having recently recovered from a long-term injury, he faces a critical period to demonstrate his capability to be a regular first-team player under Iraola. The club may need to decide on his future as he approaches the final year of his deal.

Impact of World Cup omission

The midfielder’s exclusion from the World Cup squad was described as a painful personal setback. In his social media message, Endo stated that he had done everything possible since his injury and had no regrets, despite the frustration of not participating in the tournament. He expressed strong belief in the current Japan team’s ability to overcome challenges.

Endo’s retirement from the national team means he will now be cheering for Japan from the sidelines. He encouraged unity and support for the team, hoping they would achieve success in the North and Central America World Cup. Japan was eliminated from the tournament in the last-32 round when Brazil secured a 2-1 victory.

For Iraola, the pre-season will be crucial in evaluating players like Endo, who offers defensive instincts, professionalism, and tactical discipline. These qualities could be valuable as the new head coach works to establish standards within the squad. This summer will likely determine whether Endo remains a part of Liverpool’s plans or if the club opts for a different direction.

Source: liverpoolecho.co.uk

The post Wataru Endo begins early Liverpool pre-season after World Cup omission appeared first on NewsGB.

Liverpool have officially confirmed the signing of defender Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes in a deal valued at £60m. The France Under-21 international has signed a five-year contract with an option for an additional year at Anfield. The transfer was finalised after an agreement was reached in January, with Jacquet remaining at Rennes for the rest of the 2025/26 season.

The initial fee for Jacquet is £55m, with an additional £5m potentially payable in performance-related add-ons. The 20-year-old completed his medical examinations on Deadline Day in February, paving the way for his move to the Premier League champions.

Jacquet expressed his excitement about joining the club, stating, “I feel really good, the first impressions are good and I am very happy to start here. I am very happy. When I see the facilities, I can see myself there. I feel good here and I am very excited to get started. For me it’s a big dream, it’s a big club. A club like Liverpool, it’s a big dream for me.”

Jacquet’s Recovery and Squad Integration

Earlier this year, Jacquet sustained a shoulder injury. However, he has successfully completed a rehabilitation programme and is currently engaged in individual fitness work. He is expected to be available for the start of pre-season training under head coach Andoni Iraola.

Jacquet’s arrival provides Liverpool with another option at centre-back. He will join Virgil van Dijk, Geovanni Leoni, and Joe Gomez in the first-team squad. This move aligns with Liverpool‘s strategy of recruiting emerging talent, as the average age of their first-team signings over the last two transfer windows has been lower than 22.

The acquisition of Jacquet is particularly timely given other defensive situations at the club. Geovanni Leoni, who suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury on his debut, is also anticipated to be fit for the start of pre-season. Additionally, Jacquet’s arrival provides a replacement for Ibrahima Konate, who departed on a free transfer to Real Madrid after his contract expired.

Interest from Other Clubs and Expert Opinion

Liverpool faced competition for Jacquet’s signature, with Chelsea reportedly offering the same deal. Other clubs across Europe, including Bayern Munich, also showed interest in the highly-rated defender. Jacquet’s decision to move to Anfield highlights the appeal of the club.

French football expert Julien Laurens commented on Jacquet’s potential, describing him as “the real deal.” Laurens noted that while Jacquet is young and has not yet played for the France senior team or in major European club competitions, his performances for Rennes have been impressive. He drew comparisons between Jacquet and other prominent defenders like William Saliba and Wesley Fofana, suggesting that the fee reflects the value placed on his talent and potential.

European football expert Kevin Hatchard echoed these sentiments, identifying Jacquet as a “rising star.” Hatchard highlighted Jacquet’s qualities as a modern centre-back, including his ability on the ball, passing range, athleticism, and aerial prowess. He noted Jacquet’s experience as a captain at various youth levels for France. Despite his potential, Hatchard acknowledged that Jacquet does not have an extensive record in top-level football, having primarily played for Rennes and had a successful loan spell at Clermont. His coach at Rennes, Habib Beye, reportedly stated that allowing Jacquet to leave would necessitate downgrading the team’s seasonal goals.

This signing marks Liverpool‘s second acquisition of the summer, following the arrival of Spanish winger Victor Munoz for £34m. The club also reportedly offered an £86m package for Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig.

Jacquet’s contract with Liverpool is for five years, with an option for a sixth season.

Source: skysports.com

The post Liverpool completes Jeremy Jacquet signing from Rennes for £60m appeared first on NewsGB.