Makoto Hasebe

Makoto Hasebe

1984-

Japan's calm, long-time captain

Makoto Hasebe

Did you know a quiet voice can lead a whole team to victory? Makoto Hasebe is a Japanese soccer player famous in the 2000s and 2010s for calm, smart leadership.

Makoto Hasebe

He plays mainly as a defensive midfielder and sometimes as a center-back. After starting in Japan, he went to Germany and played many seasons in the tough Bundesliga.

Makoto Hasebe

The most important thing about Hasebe is leadership. He captained Japan and later led his club by example—organizing teammates and staying calm under pressure.

Makoto Hasebe

His lasting impact is a long, respected career in Europe that inspired young players in Japan. He showed that teamwork, thinking, and hard work open doors.

Makoto Hasebe

What can you learn? Practice hard, listen to your teammates, and stay calm when things get tough—those are the habits that make a true leader.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which clubs did Makoto Hasebe play for?

He played in Japan for Urawa Red Diamonds and in Germany for VfL Wolfsburg and Eintracht Frankfurt.

What position did he play on the field?

He was mainly a defensive midfielder who protected the defense and sometimes played as a center-back.

Did he play in the World Cup for Japan?

Yes. He represented Japan at multiple World Cups and major international tournaments during his long national-team career.

Why is he admired in Europe and Japan?

Because he built a long career in the tough Bundesliga, led teams calmly, and showed that Japanese players can succeed abroad.

How can kids learn from Makoto Hasebe?

Practice regularly, help your teammates, stay calm in tough moments, and lead by example—those habits made Hasebe a respected captain.