Japanese midfielder Hidemasa Morita has expressed significant psychological distress regarding persistent injuries, publicly stating his fear that these physical setbacks could jeopardize his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 30-year-old posted an enigmatic message on social media hours after playing against his former club, Santa Clara, in Portugal’s Azores region.
“Right now, I am fighting with myself,” Morita wrote. “Every day I question myself and work hard.”
He added that returning to the Azores, where his European career began, to play against Santa Clara was “a very special opportunity” during a “personally difficult phase.”
Morita, who currently plays for Sporting CP, also conveyed gratitude for fan support in his message. He was not selected for the Japan national team’s fixtures during the current international break.
The midfielder’s public outpouring of emotion stems from a deep concern over recurring physical problems. These issues, primarily muscular injuries, have kept him off the field consistently.
Morita has already missed 21 games for Sporting since the 2024/25 season began.
His recurring injuries prevent him, in his own view, from delivering his best performance for Sporting. The experienced player is actively seeking greater consistency in his health and form.