Wataru Endo's Dream Come True: Debut in Japan with Liverpool

Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo realized a long-held dream when he donned the Liverpool jersey for the first time on Japanese soil. Years after failing trials with Yokohama F Marinos, Endo returned home as a player for the Premier League club, participating in a pre-season match that saw Liverpool triumph 3-1.

Commenting on the experience, the 32-year-old told Liverpool's official media, 'Coming back as a Liverpool player was a dream-come-true moment.' Endo's journey included a debut with Shonan Bellmare and stints at VfB Stuttgart before his 2023 Liverpool signing.

During the match, Endo expressed his pride when Virgil van Dijk entrusted him with the captain's armband. 'It was a great gesture,' Endo noted, acknowledging the support from Japanese fans. Liverpool prepares to kick off their Premier League campaign on August 15 against Bournemouth.

(With inputs from agencies.)