Shift cable end loose

The problem may be unusual and insignificant, but I would like to dispel my doubts. Today I noticed a slight loose in one of the ends of the gear shift cable (with a square tip). In the center of this square tip is a plastic piece with a pin hole surrounded by rubber. The loose is felt between this plastic and its rubber surrounding. Recently, I have the impression that the operation of the gears has become less smooth and precise, sometimes you have to push the lever harder. I did adjust the shift cables, but the precision did not come back.

Is there a slight loose in this place in the new tips, or is it tightly fitted with the rubber so that it absorbs the movements of the line properly?