Bestriding the football pitch for Sporting CP, midfield maestro Hidemasa Morita commands attention. Born in Japan on the 10th of May, 1995, Morita stands at approximately 5ft 9in (1.77m) and weighs in at approximately 11st 9lb (74kg). As a model professional footballer aged 30, Morita is known primarily for his role as a central midfielder, although he also sports the number 5 jersey with distinction for Sporting CP. International acclaim has also been bestowed upon him, with appearances for the Japanese national team under his belt.
A noteworthy point regarding Morita's prowess resides with his current market valuation. Touted at approximately €13.00m, the folks at Transfermarkt have valued the chap at a round £11.5m. Sporting CP certainly appears to be keen on retaining his services, having ensured a contract expiration date of the 30th of June, 2026.
Morita's professional career began in earnest during the 2018 season at Kawasaki Frontale in his home country, Japan. He managed to notch up a handsome 26 first team appearances, followed by another prolific season with 23 appearances in 2019. Morita's contribution was deemed so valuable that he was awarded 32 appearances in 2020, along with his maiden goal.
The following seasons saw Morita ply his trade for Santa Clara in Portugal. In the 2020-2021 season, he featured in 20 first team games, scoring twice. The subsequent season witnessed a similar pattern, with Morita making 28 appearances and contributing a solo goal.
Morita's journey eventually led him to Sporting CP in Portugal for the 2022-2023 season. His impressive tally of 29 appearances and six goals undoubtedly left an impact, leading Sporting CP to avail his services for yet another season. His outstanding performance continued to blossom, scoring two goals in 29 first team appearances for the 2023-2024 season. In the current season, 2024-2025, Morita has already bagged two goals in 23 first team appearances.
Morita's exploits haven't been limited to the domestic scene. His stellar performances on the international stage include participation in the World Cup Qualifiers Asia 2024 - 2026 for Japan, with an impressive three goals to his name from nine starts and a single substitute appearance. Additionally, his prowess shone through during the Europa League 2023 - 2024 for Sporting CP, as well as the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira 2024 - 2025 and Champions League 2024 - 2025, where Morita featured in multiple starting line-ups and substitute roles.
