How Wataru Endo SAVED Liverpool £100 MILLION | The Eye Test

In the latest episode of The Eye Test with ‪@brfootball‬ Lyés Bouzidi and CultureCams sit down and discuss Wataru Endo's impact at Liverpool this season, and assess just why player profiling is more important than ever when signing players.

[@LyesBouzidi]

WELCOME TO THE EYE TEST👁

[@TheGoat17710]

Lol I said that on the barca vid

[@vicstone8817]

Love the podcast name

[@TheGoat17710]

@vicstone8817

[@TheGoat17710]

@vicstone8817 I made the name

[@u_sport3077]

Nah i gave them the idea

[@MemphesX]

The irony is that even though Endo has shown that he can play at this level, and like he showed vs City, can keep up and even out peform players like Rodri and even force Pep to sub KDB off, people will STILL dismiss him as non-serious player because of his price tag

[@peopletalkuttergarbage]

But no-one is doing that so your comment makes no sense!

[@thomassmith6638]

@@peopletalkuttergarbagealright chill out

[@cheeseshit999]

No ones dismissing him everyone knows what a warrior he is i knew hed be a succes when i heard what stuttgart fans had to say about him

[@hectorlagos8937]

only FIFA kids

[@splinter360]

Glad people are starting to see what we've been seeing for months now. His biggest strength is actually the way he constantly plays it forward through the lines.

[@Dwayndibb]

Excellent player. I would still like them to buy João Palhinha. But I totally get the value

[@lubilubi6649]

tbf Endo showed this exact playstyle at stuttgart and he was the best of the whole bundesliga. He got a little more offensive role after stuttgart saw his importance to the club but he does exceed in the more defensive role as he was before. Everyone at stuttgart hoped he would stay under the radar so props to liverpool scouting but he always was exactly this player as he is now.

[@Davey11]

So happy for Endo, quiet achiever. Wish he was 5 years younger

[@rayiversen8051]

Simple. Just turn that clock back😉

[@kilokay5506]

he's gotta another good 5-6 years in him. He will be a key player for Liverpool in the coming years

[@5rt6rt]

I hv bn thinking the same

[@sanmojimoji7483]

No worry. He is japanese. He can play until 40.

[@changeisinevitable3040]

He can still play atleast 3-4 years at the top level.. If he remains injury free he could even play for 5-6 years..

[@Yoyo-sy5kl]

One thing you guys missed out. Im pretty sure that Klopp profiled Endo. Endo plays for Stutgart which is Klopp's hometown team. Klopp himself said he had his eyes on him for a while and rated him.

[@k-matsu]

Of course Klopp knew Endo; they even had spoken a number of times after games, acording to Endo. Endo may have gone under the radar outside of Germany and Asia simply because he was never "available" in a trading window. Stuttgart loved having him, Endo loved being Captain at Stuttgart, and neither one was interested in listening to bids from another club. A Japanese monthly magazine even had an interview where Endo said he was (my rough translation) "expecting to play for Stuttgart until retirement, just like (Makoto) Hasebe at Frankfurt." The only reason he changed his plans, according to Endo himself, was that Klopp asked him personally ... and he both knew and trusted Klopp enough to say yes. One thing people should understand is that the promo/sponsorship income Endo can earn as Japan National Team captain is so substantial (and he's basically assured of that so long as he remains captain at Stuttgart), that the annual salary another team might offer a 31-year-old DMF is barely enough to pay the taxes. Furthermore the longer he remains NT Captain, the bigger his post-playing career as an announcer is certain to be. The economics of football in Japan are very different. Its rare for Japanese players to jump clubs JUST for money, because it almost never works out. You lose trust, and that affects whether the NT setup are going to view you as a candidate. TLDR: Nobody was going to tempt a guy like Endo away from Stutgart, merely with cash. Endo is at Liverpool thanks to Jurgen Klopp's personal relationships. The club is really gonna miss him

[@jayj1621]

Well said. Truly enjoyed all the informations you’ve written.

[@Nath_967]

The lad took the piss out of city’s midfield and I loved every minute MY NUMBER 3

[@shroommcfanta2020]

Endo has this weird (and very rare) superpower that he makes everybody around him better. Off course he works better if he is surrounded by already good players. Endo at united would be game changer for them.

[@jeffpaul12]

Endo the new Virgil

[@chris-lh6ol]

honestly yh, he allows trent to go forward, allows the forwards to stay up. And gosh I am so happy that the mac endo combo is working out.

[@hcamp74]

Would he be able to be his best version at United? Or would he end up lost in the noise like Amrabat

[@splinter360]

Please don't mention Endo in the same sentence as that lot 🤮

[@hystaric_3013]

Nobody's going to work out at Utd, OT is a graveyard for players, if you think a Utd signing is doing well there, that player is going to be miles better at other top 6 clubs.

[@thabanakabo4370]

when u said Wataru Endo @1:40 it sent chills, I love this guy so much. Not a Liverpool fan but I respect greats when I see no matter the team . He is like a hybrid of Radja Nianngolan & Jakub Blaszczykwoski.

[@vwmusicplaylist1935]

What has really surprised me about Endo is how good his passing and ability on the ball is. He's very good at controlling the tempo of the game and progressing the ball as well at the usual defensive aspects.

[@vwmusicplaylist1935]

Endo has also highlighted how bad Caicedo's passing is. Liverpool definitely dodged a £115m bullet by missing out on him.... and also shows they were crying out for a proper Michael Edwards type character to add some balance to the decision making.

[@hystaric_3013]

He has always been good with those at Stuttgart, the real surprising thing about Endo is that he's better than Fabinho when it comes to winning the ball back in the final 3rd seconds after Liverpool lose possession. He's somehow always there within seconds, tackling, intercepting, or hounding the player with the ball not allowing him to turn. It's extremely difficult to do it, let alone consistently, the bravery to leave that much space behind him, in his first season at a new club, without pre-season, he was thrown into action just 3 months in after Mac Allister got injured and made the 6 position his own. It's crazy to think, even with hindsight, that Liverpool lost to Arsenal at the Emirates partially because Endo was on international duty with Japan.

[@michaelmoime3118]

VW appoves? This is definitely a good day!😂

[@soundsurg3on]

Balanced, nuanced, intelligent, no sensationalism. What football content should be. Really enjoyed your takes guys. Quick sub

[@jojoaquino6989]

Endo: bargain of the season...he pocketed 2 manCHEATY players in one game... what a player❤❤❤

[@adamkai9272]

Bro just take serious with Klopp words. " We really really need your help. ". I always believe Endo as you watch his Bundesliga and World Cup run he is a machine. No fatigue or tiredness can play whole 90 mins + 30 mins. He is just coach delight. Respectful and Silent Samurai

[@syaffsullivan7472]

Everybody saying Gravenberch is not good enough.. Pissed me off, that boy just just only 21 year old in his first season after 1 year not playing in Bayern..

[@DaHomieRoach]

Ya I agree. He hasn't really had consistent playing time to express himself. With the other midfield signings performing so well, jones and elliot taking a big step forward in their development, its been tough for him to get on the pitch

[@jayj1621]

That’s what everyone said to Elliot and Jones about a year ago. I’m sure Gravenberch will step up and become a better player in a few years.

[@DaHomieRoach]

@@jayj1621 ya question is will he want to stick around if he continues to not get as much play time next year with the new manager

[@jayj1621]

@@DaHomieRoach it depends on the new manger and how he’s gonna use Graven. According to transfer market, he played 1570 mins for Liverpool this season (he will definitely get more play time this season) and he only played 937 mins for BM last season. So he is clearly getting more time here.

[@sadiejohn7753]

Endo keeps it ticking , doesn't wait for someone to comeover like most DM . He's really good with both feet and turn both sides. He moves It progressively and he's got a pretty good final ball he definitely ping it to our wingers

[@webMonkey_]

Endo has been very good, I think it would be typical that the media build him up to knock him down when he has a couple of bad games. His disruptive play is at a very high level and it gives the defence a lot of time to organise and get back, his passing forward is also very good which was unexpected. However the way he attacks the ball at heading is the most unexpected, he is very strong in the air.

[@jayj1621]

Well, he showed his passing skills for Sttugart and his national team as well as his combat ability in the air. He had been top 3 air duel winners among Bundesliga’s midfielders for years and he also played centerback years ago. All the data was just there but many people just didn’t care much or didn’t put an effort to find it. I was so happy when Liverpool signed him instead of Caicedo and even happier now that Endo proved himself and let the doubters convert into believers.

[@k-matsu]

8:30 -- A far better example is Kaoru Mitoma. Everyone in Japan knew how good he was. It wasnt a question of whether he could step up; it was a question of who would find him first. Even before he went to Belgium I would have bet my life savings that he was going to be a future star. Tony Bloom happens to have a good network in Japan (I should know; I once worked for him). Thats why he was able to sign Mitoma for 2 million. Thats right ... TWO million. How much is he worth today?

[@Sweetboy_mabs]

You gotta love Lyes talking about football man. Brilliant football knowledge.🤝🏽

[@NM-hq1io]

Add some spit

[@LyesBouzidi]

appreciate that🤞🏼❤️

[@capncook1892]

@@NM-hq1ioyou already did it bozo

[@abdallaholivier8203]

I never heard or saw Wataru Endo before he joined liverpool. I come the found out that Premier is where good players have to play. Endo is a very good player

[@kmahta]

All i want is a normal football talk without any bias. I appreciate that.

[@LestaBan]

Endo is the perfect fit for the name eye test

[@masegolfc]

Gravenberch will humble everyone once he adjusted fully into the league.

[@alteringmatter8782]

He already had great performances until some average dude injured him

[@5rt6rt]

very true he has showed alot of potential

[@Quiteveryrandom]

@@5rt6rtpure pure talent. I feel he Carries the ball way too much and tries to put in flair (which frankly we don’t do) but he’s a baller. Hopefully he fully clicks

[@jayleyy]

Wataru Endo defines a new type of playmaker. He is versatile and his spatial awareness of his team's positionings and gaps were almost covered by him most of the times. Around 80% of the time he's filling up those exploitable pockets of space which he challenged, intercepted and defended really well. 16 million pounds, is beyond daylight robbery.

[@waragainstsleepx2517]

Endo is a classic 'moneyball' buy. His stats were great at Stuttgart, he was 1st or 2dn in the Bundesliga for most DM stats I think, but his age probably went against him, his size maybe compared to some of these big, strong DMs who maraud about and look strong in the air. He's just like the guy in the movie, coaches didn't like the look of him or idea of him but his stats say he gets on base. And boy has he got on base. As for whether he has suddenly improved, well you can only beat whats in front of you, but also in team sports you are affected by whats around you. He was able to shine in a time that didn't shine that much. Put him in a team that already knows how to shine, and hes golden. Shiny as they come. His age and experience has probably helped him adapt quickly to the pace of the Premier League, his physiology has probably helped with his endurance enabling him to run all game long, twice a week, Liverpool's analysts have spotted ways to turn traits that made him unappealing and cheap and turned them into assets. I'm surprised we haven't seen him line up in defence yet (probably only due to Quansah) because Klopp likes versatility and Endo has experience at CB too.

[@KloppMichaelBarnes]

Yes, Wataru Endo is very versatile. I was so happy when he signed. However, it is not possible for him to play as a CB in the Premier League. Statistics show that elite CBs are now at least 6'2" and lightning quick.

[@javiermeza1544]

Alexis Mac Allister compliments players like Caicedo, Endo, etc.

[@woodsy967]

LFC not Lost a game with endo on the pitch. Listen lads, when u c yer team mate putting in a gumshield before the game u know you've got a player willing to go to war with you

[@neillynch_ecocidologist]

First footballer I ever heard of to wear a gumshield. Great comment and I totally agree.

[@waynewhittal1848]

You guys forget that the coach/manager has a massive effect on players and Klopp has this amazing ability to bring out the best in every player just about because he truly believes in them and he gives them the confidence they need to get better. He gives them time whether he has it or not and takes the pressure and spotlight off them when they don't perform straight away he let's them develop and actually coaches them/helps them get better and reach their potential a prime example is look at all the players that have left Liverpool and failed to reach the same heights. It also comes down to the mentality of the player as well, though. Endo was told by Klopp we need your engine and to keep running and that's what he did. in the beginning he battled to keep up with the pace of the game but look at him now. Klopp took the pressure off him and gave him time to develop and acclimatize to the EPL. He does that with every player. I can't speak for other managers at other clubs because I do not follow them but I do follow Liverpool closely and I am a big LFC fan. I pray we get Alonso as it is almost a like for like swap with man management but I think Alonso might just be ahead of klopp on a Tactical perspective but LFC need Alonso as he also knows the Club and the Fans and the ethos of LFC and he will hopefully take us to new heights going forward

[@Uzumaki.9]

I agree. Klopp boosts all his players in all areas. Physically, mentally and tactically. It's why even his YA kids look like well seasoned adult players. I think another reason why even the non-1st team players tend to play so well is that Klopp's liverpool relies very heavily on rotations to circumvent the injury and fatigue buildup that comes with the nature of their playstyle. It's a basic fact that form and performance are reliant on consistent game time. Klopp keeps his league and cup squad lineups separate and thus pumps even his 2nd team and reserves with ample game time. That's why our subs and reserves stay immune to the pressure when they come onto the pitch in a league game. Just look at Kelleher and the other kids in their recent games. Not to mention the recent City game when they were brought on. 1/3rd of the players were subs but they made City look like a mid-table team in the PL.

[@domgiano2580]

Our midfield this season has been great!! Macca is having an amazing season (stats don’t show it but game does), szobo has crazy potential, and endo is going crazy rn!

[@myguysteven]

Love the pod name! Also, 100% agree on the "development stage" in signing players but as someone who religiously watches a "talent factory" in Ligue 1, watching these kids develop and the clubs who are forced to sell them to just make enough to profit, I've watched for years as these youngsters who I sing their names but no one hears me until they leave and then become "a name" in the prem, la liga, etc. I imagine it's the same for Bundesliga, Liga Nos, Erdevise fans as well.

[@fourchainz]

Bro you guys were really podding in this episode!! I have this same thoughts all the time in professional sports, that the level between majority of these guys is not that different. Most of these guys were the best players in their respective acadamies, and their respective clubs that's how they earned a move into one of Europe's top 5 leagues. What it comes down to at the end of the day is environment, and confidence. A player like Sancho, for example, doesn't forget how to kick ball all of a sudden. If you watch him at Dortmund the first time, and watch him now it's two completely different players. He doesn't play with the same hunger, the same belief, the same audacity that made him attempt some of the things that made him such a dangerous player. It's unfortunate that not everyone is able to completely fulfill that potential that they believe they have. Only the truly elite players have that "something" that separates them, that supreme talent that it's a clear gulf in ability. Reminds me of an all time Brian Scalabrine quote "I'm closer to Lebron than you'll ever be to me."

[@buridah328]

Respect. Excellent analysis. You guys are real fans of the beautiful game. Not blinded by rivalry. Big up

[@ragnarlothbrok4827]

5:30 I think it’s good for the league in general when big clubs like Liverpool go for the small money signings and they play great. It means other clubs have the confidence to reject these overinflated premier league prices and shop elsewhere, which will be good for the market long term.

[@samlasley798]

Gotta say you guys talk with a clarity you don’t see often from football pundits, who usually waffle or do GOAT rankings for views. Keep it coming 👏🏻

[@anthonybrady2779]

Captain of Japan and Stuttgart, all people needed to do was watch some videos and read what players who played with him had said. I was sure he would be fine, just needed a bit of time to adjust.

[@bigsmoke9876]

You guys should do a conversation on how Klopp will potentially leave Liverpool in not just a better shape than he ever had during his time but also potentially the best a squad condition of all time. If you look at the squad plus what’s coming through. For example, Luke Chambers a young left back who Xabi Alonso himself wanted at LB ready to replace Tsimikas & push Robertson = Tsimikas profit & free upgrade. Quansah is a free replacement for Joel Matip. Bajcetic who’s got the potential to be the next Alonso his minutes are timed perfectly with Endo being in his 30’s… add Tyler Morton to that. McConnell & Clark who played the final look ready to play bit part roles to the point Liverpool could let go of Thiago & save millions in midfield. Harvey Elliot looks ready to replace Mo In a different way more towards a Mahrez/Bernardo Silva type instead of an outright winger/striker. Fabio Carvalho, Ben Doak & Danns showing insane progress to play bit part roles up front.

[@saulziyech9710]

We liverpool fans know how important Endo has been for us for months, his physicality and tech is top notch. Hope he can keep it up man

[@Black_Hxmmer]

'Algerian Journalist' Lyes was cooking this ep

[@LyesBouzidi]

🧏🏻‍♂️

[@Jonse70]

Sorry, but if Sadio Mane had moved to Man Utd instead of Liverpool, he would never have blossomed. You're wrong. There are managers who mould players and make them into stars you didn't know existed.

[@cabdihaybe5942]

Yes, really, how many better players than Sadio Manchester United got and turned them into mediocrity 😂 countless

[@jydeade8944]

It's all about the the system, which why when player leave Klopp, they are not the same.

[@deidredrakeBEST]

Thanks for an interesting and great discussion. From an LFC fan and someone who ilikes Endo very much.

[@mckennageno7053]

I enjoyed the segment about academy players at big clubs in the case of Amad. We’ve seen in the case of Liverpool injuries have forced their hand to play the academy players and they look every bit of first team players. Quansah and Bradley in particular.

[@basit1192]

He’s super strong and can pass the ball forward, none of this Declan rice 5 yard side passing

[@MattyJM]

probably the best football pod on youtube. great job lads

[@andyballard1883]

Fantastic to hear two young presenters with great knowledge and indepth analysis. Great podcast 🔥👍

[@Ken_from_Mumbai]

Just stumbled upon your video. Very sensible comments, exactly what the main stream football media is not. Loved it. You earned a sub.

[@fuadadan5786]

You guys have no idea how refreshing this show is from the usual cesspool that football content has become these days

[@aritheaneomakri5746]

Klopp checked Endo's injury records in the last three seasons at Bundesliga. He had no injury record apart from three absent records(1 concussion, 1 corona and 1 yellow card suspension) even though he topped in duels and won the second in tackles and interceptions.

[@Cdlee-oo9hn]

he doesnt seem fast but he is always there. also very skillful

[@sympa_is_misanthropic]

“It’s fine margins at the elite level”.

[@jessnorthcutt8182]

Great stuff, really interesting analysis. Endo has been quality, easily bargain of the season.

[@LFC01]

What an interesting listen this turned out to be, after just being recommended your channel , the in depth analysis on players valuation & todays transfer market compared to previous years. Subbed!

[@fugaziishime]

Darwin nunez under Xabi alonso would be insane.

[@nathanielofori83]

Bro you guys knowledge on football in general is madness🔥 No bias, no punditry lenses, and just selflessness, new subscriber

[@DestinedForSuccess_JA]

W combination of lyes and cam Perfect combination for a podcast! Keep up the good work!

[@Capo1of1]

Lyes KEEP GOING DONT STOP DROPPING CONSISTENCY IS KEY U GONNA MAKE IT INSHALLAH KEPP DOING YOUR THING

[@asapcharles_3555]

Olise/Dialo and Palmer/Mcatee points were class #EYETEST!

[@Thunderup01]

Opportunity and the right timing is a big thing in sports in general too

[@greyman6353]

One constant you hear from great players like Zidane, Messi, Figo is the stories they tell of players in their youth who they felt were better than them, but for some reason never realized their potential for whatever reason - poor mentality, bad injuries, lack of game time, etc

[@ParadoxAdnan]

Love the pod, keep up the great work

[@shattered2137]

This one has a great potential. You both are really listenable unlike most mfs on football podcasts. Actual gem of a duo. Keep it up👍

[@amitkashyap7489]

I listen to football podcast all day .. but gotta say you guys talk so good.. you will grow mark my words this is 1 million followers channel

[@woodsy967]

Come on lads, respect endo, klopp has said numerous times he'd wanted endo for over 2years previous but Liverpool hierarchy said he didn't fit the profile of age and his values rising. Reckon thou if got him 3yr ago 15ml at 27yr old his value would have hit the 50ml @28 n 29yr old

[@MadLFC]

Endo would have been a bargain even if he had cost three times as much. He's bossed the midfield since he settled in and didn't give Man City's world class midfield an inch to breathe in that last game. Absolute bargain of the season by far.

[@postmads1974]

Klopp once said in an interview that potentional players always wonder why he doesn't talk about football in their first meeting. It's because he already knows that the player is good footy wise. He only talks about who he is. And if the connection is there, It's fine.

[@MrSheepytoo]

Love the podcast, well thought out and presented, looking at things from a fresh angle...... Keep it up 👍

[@Tmbt10]

Nice episode nice podcast guys! Can’t wait for more episodes let’s go the👁️ podcast!❤

[@sammacdaibheid]

Think you're a bit harsh on Ryan Gravenberch. He was playing quite well before the injury and slowly getting into his groove. He's still a very young player, far too early to judge him yet for me. He has had quiet games but there's a lot of potential there. He's technically sound and has a great physical presence in the middle. Good ball carrier, too. Oh, and he provides a threat in front of goal. He has been fine and it's only his first season.

[@alexanderkenway]

Even as a Liverpool fan I can't hate on Lyes man

[@promiseisaac8251]

Ilove the intro man, and great content too 😊

[@Jamalk96]

Regarding the solution to big clubs not buying players before they come to the PL, the direct response we’ve seen to this is the multi-club model solution. We can see this at city, Brighton, the Red bull clubs and Chelsea in the past and present , with potentially Liverpool entering this space soon. If a multi club group can buy a unproven player from all corners of the world give them starting minutes and seamlessly transition them into the main big club, I think we will be seeing this as a more common solution in years to come.

[@nixxy111]

Klopp wanted endo 2 years ago but fsg wouldn't sanction the deal as he was 28 and didn't fit their transfer model. But due to the disappointment of not landing caicedo or lavia they allowed klopp to get his nan at 30.

[@lqvsh_3973]

Yall cooked this ep! The scouts really need to do their due diligence and level up their game. Endo, for his price, the steal of the season

[@LyesBouzidi]

🫡❤️

[@marclake2802]

Just found this. Great chat love this content. Just on Caicedo in Ecuador - he was massively rated and everyone wanted him but he was in a complex 3rd / 4th party ownership structure and clubs were struggling to unravel the web. Not sure how Brighton did it but that’s how they ended up with him

[@olaoluposts]

great pod, i think now that clubs are getting more shrewd we might see south american teams charge more for their players which could phase out teams like brighton. This is good tho at the same time cause it means we’ll see more prem clubs retain their talent and not forced to sell. Also keep a look out for the Australian League, i think as time goes on we’ll see more clubs looking there for players!

[@jiahaogoh2822]

Underrated podcast

[@qazwsxedc964]

Those who have not played in midfield do not understand why the 6 role is so difficult to play and spot with the eye test not with statistics. Just ask Zidane when Real sold Mekelele, and Mourinho who bought him on the cheap.

[@AnfieldGrounds]

Really good content. Keep it up

[@Rigg96]

Refreshing to watch a football show where there is actual football knowledge, not an over reliance on stats and not biased. One thing I’d note about the Gravenberch comment is to give him time. He had a really tough year at Bayern not getting given a fair opportunity after an unreal season at Ajax, has then come to Liverpool and has picked up a few injuries and it’s his first season in the prem. The talent is there and I think if I can maintain his fitness and get a good run in the team, he will be a big player for Liverpool in the future.

[@patrickchirwa9351]

Love this pod

[@guillermomathewskaungu2050]

You just earned a new subscriber WOW love your content.🤝🤝🤝🇿🇲

[@basil7500]

Great intellect guys!! 👏👍❤️

[@robchicken6820]

This is why I love Martinelli buy. The scouting was so good

[@akhilvenugopal4990]

like you said, if an 'X' player instead of Sadio signed for Liverpool, would be as successful as him, would he be as injury free as him as well? The amount of work Sadio put in is incredible! Loved the discussion, keep going guys!

[@lsebs4878]

i love him so much

[@sixfootsosa4466]

Very solid podcast

[@verqoh1545]

Lyes! We need at least 1 hour vids.

[@gairejr980]

Stfu lads and upload more constantly . Pure football vibes , no bias. I use to pray for time like these 💯

[@user-do7oi6zn8t]

GREAT VID LADS

[@zanamandaza]

Awesome show!

[@WillchurchSWE]

It's interesting because Edwards is never signing off on Endo if this transfer was something that was proposed in the future. 30 is prime for some players.

[@kahfidacups803]

Liverpool signs captains...Grounded lifestyle type of player with leadership qualities...Virgil, Robbo, Endo, Szobo, Salah...Etc

[@runningsuperska]

Let's go Wataru! *gumshield in

[@drunkviggo7263]

Endo is The Premier League Player of The Year, but he is not in the conversation because he is Japanese.

[@Qlicky]

Better than Rice?

[@amip8189]

​@@Qlicky even as Liverpool fan I still think rice is better but for 16mill we will have him over rice everyday and we r gona win the league just wait and watch

[@Qlicky]

@@amip8189Sure thing, I would also have Martinelli for £6m over £37m Gakpo but that's not what we're talking about here. Endo was a great signing, but you'd think Liverpool signed prime Makalele for a fiver judging by some of the comments.

[@TheGoat17710]

Declan rice plays every minute

[@freemster6525]

Your right guys it's all about picking the right peg for the hole

[@bonzobanzi1137]

The one thing you didn't mention is the fans, fans of clubs like Man United wouldn't accept the owners paying peanuts for unknown players. Every season all the talk is about the budget, the budget, the budget and if Ten Haag, or whoever will be backed by their owners to the tune of £300m+ for just 3-4 players, and get criticised for "only" spending that much.

[@truevanpencil5403]

If he had pace he would have been at a top club years ago. Remember he didn’t come to Europe until quite late, and had to adjust. The PL is much faster and more demanding than any other league. That’s just a fact. It isn’t the most technical league but the speed of the games is what players don’t understand until they play a game. Plenty of huge talents and established stars have failed to adjust to the speed. Endo admitted it himself. Shrewd deal. Insane attitude and work rate and Japanese 31 is like a European 28 😂

[@RazaBrothers]

Perfect name

[@reeganreddy1394]

The common denominator between Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, is Alexis McAllister, he made them both look better than they are

[@l0t13r_4]

W PODCAST NAME ‼️

[@ac5788]

Real life FIFA Career Mode. Kang-In Lee was a banger for midfield stats (amazing agility/reactions) in FIFA 22 and now he's at PSG.

[@shanefoy3720]

We lfc only went for caciedo near the end of the summer, and we also lost lavia. We never heard any rumours about doucoure oh any of the other ones you mentioned, but I'm surprised Endo was good. He was captain of stuggart, and Japan can't be bad, and he is showing what he can do now. ynwa lfc forever

[@LFC01]

sorry but there was rumours/links with Doucouré & Palhinha after Caicedo and Lavia deals fell through, Liverpool enquired about Doucouré and Palhinha to my knowledge but were put off by their asking prices, also with the latter he had his heart set on a Bayern move & was looking inevitably more likely he would be there until Bayern pulled the plug on the deal at the eleventh hour

[@LFC01]

YNWA 🔴

[@jimflan1712]

An interesting discussion chaps. My own view is basically, that you are spot on. Even if we look at Liverpool, they have paid that ‘Premier proven’ overhead a few times - most notably with VVD and Sadio Mane, both bought from Southampton, despite both being looked at by Liverpool before they went to Southampton a d Liverpool ended up paying tens of millions more for each player through that delay. But, Liverpool, unlike their peers, appear to have learned from that experience. All the top clubs were looking at Upamecano at RBL, and the price was around 80m but Liverpool went for his partner Konate for half that price despite being much less experienced. Who now would take Upamecano over Konate ? Ditto Liverpool taking Szoboszlai without him playing in the ‘elite’ level. Endo is the next instalment of that. The other thing about Liverpool is that they do not throw a player straight into the deep end. They keep them under wraps until they are used to the style, formation and role, and also have become familiar with the rest of the team and the coaching team. Liverpool did this with Robertson, Gomez, Elliott, Fabinho and Jota. Other clubs seem to lack this patience and throw their new players straight in and often their confidence is damaged as a result e.g. Mudryk.