Mainz midfielder Sano Kaishu (24) played the full game in the final round of the league against second-placed Leberkusen, where he drew 2-2. He started all games from the start of the Bundesliga for the first time, making him the second Japanese player in the league in 42 seasons, since defender Okudera Yasuhiko, who contributed to Bremen's second place advancement from 1982-1983.
Although he played in 34 games this season, he had no goals or assists, but he contributed to the team with his abundant energy. According to data from the league's official website, the total mileage was 393.6 km, the longest in the league. The number of wins in duels (base-defense) also stood out at 369, fourth in the league.
The team advanced from 13th place last season to 6th place. He has qualified for the European Conference League next season.