With the summer window approaching and the Reds navigating a challenging domestic campaign—sitting sixth in the Premier League amid injury woes and inconsistent form—Owen stressed that allowing this player to leave would represent a “huge mistake” for the club.
Owen’s intervention highlights the growing importance of midfield stability under Arne Slot. Mac Allister has been a cornerstone since his 2023 arrival from Brighton, forming a dynamic partnership in central areas that has driven Liverpool’s play in both possession and transitions. The “duo partner” in question—amid speculation and the chemistry emphasized by Owen—aligns closely with reports pointing to Wataru Endo, the Japanese international who has deputized effectively in defensive midfield roles, including central defense during recent injury crises (e.g., covering for Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konaté).
Endo’s contract, signed upon his £16m move from Stuttgart in August 2023, runs until June 30, 2027—not 2026—but Owen’s warning may reflect broader concerns over squad depth or a misreported timeline in fast-moving transfer discourse. (Alternative interpretations have floated other midfielders, but Endo’s versatility and recent contributions—such as solid performances against Qarabag—fit the “partner” narrative alongside Mac Allister’s more creative profile.) Owen argued that the on-pitch understanding, work rate, and tactical flexibility this player brings—especially in shielding the backline and enabling Mac Allister’s forward surges—are “too important to ignore.”
“Losing him would be a massive error,” Owen reportedly stated in recent punditry appearances and interviews. “The chemistry in midfield, particularly with Mac Allister, is gold dust right now. Liverpool can’t let this drag on; they need to act decisively to keep the core intact.” His comments come as Liverpool face mounting pressure: board-set conditions tie Slot’s future to a top-five Premier League finish for Champions League qualification next season, and recent European success (third in the league phase after the 6-0 Qarabag rout) contrasts with domestic struggles.
The urgency is amplified by other contract situations—defenders like Ibrahima Konaté and Andy Robertson expire in June 2026, while midfield talents like Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Mac Allister himself are tied down to 2028. Owen’s plea underscores the need for proactive retention amid financial prudence from Fenway Sports Group (FSG), who have invested heavily in stars like Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitiké, and Alexander Isak but face scrutiny over squad balance.
Endo’s role has evolved under Slot: from rotational option to vital utility man, impressing with his leadership (as Japan captain), pressing intensity, and ability to adapt positions. His recent deputizing in defense during the Qarabag win—amid Gomez’s hip injury and Konaté’s absence—highlighted his value, though Slot’s reported internal warnings about underperformers add layers to retention talks.
Fans have reacted strongly to Owen’s reminder, with many agreeing the club must prioritize extensions to avoid a repeat of past regrets (e.g., free-agent departures). With the January window closed and focus shifting to summer planning, Liverpool’s hierarchy will be under pressure to negotiate swiftly. Owen’s words serve as a timely alert: in a season of transition and high stakes, preserving proven midfield chemistry could be the difference between resurgence and regression.
As Newcastle and Manchester City loom in the Premier League, maintaining this duo’s synergy remains crucial. Liverpool cannot afford complacency—Owen’s warning is clear: act now, or risk losing a vital piece
