Liverpool Urged to Start Wataru Endo in Bournemouth Clash | OneFootball

Liverpool Weigh Midfield Options Ahead of Bournemouth Opener

Liverpool’s Premier League title defence begins under the Anfield lights, with Bournemouth the first test in a season that promises both expectation and scrutiny. After a summer of statement signings and boardroom stability, the challenge now shifts from recruitment to results.

The champions have strengthened smartly, building a squad that blends proven quality with emerging talent. Yet pre-season has offered a mixed picture. Moments of sharp, attacking cohesion have been offset by defensive lapses, leaving Arne Slot with decisions to make before the Cherries arrive on Friday night.

Photo: IMAGO

Calls for Endo to Anchor Midfield

One area of concern is the midfield balance, particularly after Liverpool’s Community Shield defeat to Crystal Palace. The match exposed gaps in defensive cover, with Palace regularly finding space in transition. Former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol believes the solution lies in experience and discipline.

“He maybe has to think about starting Endo,” Nicol told ESPN FC on their YouTube channel. “A lot of the problems they had on the counter that Palace gave them was because of the turnover. There was nobody to stop anybody, and that will be a concern for them.

“I think there has to be a little bit of caution. The fact Gravenberch will not start the season, he [Arne Slot] has to rethink defensively, instead of going all guns blazing with all these forwards he has signed, he just needs to cool his jets and think about the defensive side of the game.”

Wataru Endo, a £16m signing who impressed in spells last season, offers a reliable shield in front of the back four. His reading of the game and ability to break up play could be vital, particularly with Ryan Gravenberch unavailable after the birth of his child and Alexis Mac Allister still building fitness following injury.

Early Season Challenges for the Champions

Liverpool’s opening weeks will test both the depth and adaptability of Slot’s squad. While new signings have added pace, flair, and goals, integrating them into a cohesive system takes time. The absence of Gravenberch in midfield disrupts the balance, forcing Slot to reshuffle earlier than planned.

Bournemouth, under Andoni Iraola, arrive with confidence and an appetite for causing problems. Their pressing style and quick transitions could expose the very weaknesses Liverpool struggled with against Palace if the midfield is left unprotected.

Slot’s Tactical Balancing Act

The manager faces a classic early-season dilemma. Does he unleash the full attacking potential of his revamped forward line, or prioritise control and solidity in the middle? Nicol’s advice points firmly towards the latter. Slot must ensure his side are not vulnerable to counter-attacks while still maintaining the intensity and creativity that delivered last season’s title.

Photo IMAGO

A measured approach in the opening fixture could set the tone for the months ahead. Endo’s inclusion would provide a safety net for Liverpool’s attacking full-backs and allow creative players to operate higher up the pitch without leaving gaps.

Pressure and Expectation at Anfield

Liverpool begin the campaign as defending champions for the first time since 2020, and the weight of expectation will be felt from the first whistle. Supporters will demand a fast start, but the real test lies in managing form and fitness over the long haul.

The fixture list offers little room for error. Bournemouth may be the opener, but more challenging opponents loom. Slot’s handling of this first selection dilemma could prove pivotal, and starting Endo might be the decision that ensures the champions start as they mean to go on.