Kota Hattori (born 22 November 1977) is a Japanese professional footballer best known for his long association with Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the J.League. Primarily a midfielder, Hattori earned recognition in Japan for his consistency, fitness and team-oriented style of play. He has been profiled in club and league records and remains a familiar name to followers of Japanese domestic football.

Playing position and characteristics

Hattori has most often been deployed in central or wide midfield roles where his strengths—work rate, simple but effective passing, and defensive awareness—have been most useful. Rather than relying on flashy dribbling or prolific goal scoring, his game emphasizes balance: supporting teammates, maintaining possession, and covering ground to break up opposition attacks. Coaches have valued him for tactical discipline and reliability.

Club career and development

Although details of Hattori's early youth career vary in summaries, he is widely associated with Sanfrecce Hiroshima at the professional level. Over many seasons with the club he established himself as a regular first-team player and a steady presence through changes in management and squad personnel. Contemporary summaries and statistical pages provide match-by-match records and season statistics for his appearances and contributions; see a typical Kota Hattori profile or player statistics for more detail. General club information is available from the Sanfrecce Hiroshima organization: Sanfrecce Hiroshima.

Importance and role

Hattori's value has often been measured by his longevity and the stability he brought to midfield. Players like him help maintain continuity when teams rebuild or change tactics. For younger teammates, such professionals serve as examples of preparation, positional sense and professionalism. In league contexts, dependable midfielders are frequently pivotal even when they do not attract major headlines.

Notable facts

  • Born 22 November 1977, Hattori is associated with the modern era of the J.League.
  • Recognized more for consistency and endurance than for high goal totals.
  • Often cited in club histories and statistical records for his sustained service.

For readers seeking season-by-season details, statistics pages and club archives remain the best sources for match appearances, minutes played and specific achievements.