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- Sano Kaishu (Photo taken in November 2023)
On the 23rd, the Japan Football Association (JFA) announced the Japanese national team members who will be competing in the 2026 World Cup (World Cup) Asian final qualifying round against Australia (June 5th, Perth) and the match against Indonesia (June 10th, Panasta) in Chiba city. Midfielder Sano Kaishu (24, Mainz), who was arrested on suspicion of unconsensual sexual intercourse in July last year and was later not charged with indictment, has returned for the first time in about a year and two months. Sano Umi was called up to be a member of the World Cup Asian second round qualifying round against North Korea last March, but due to injury, he was not involved. This is the first time they've been active since the Asian Cup Qatar Tournament in January to February of the same year. He released his comments through his agency, and expressed his thoughts, “I am truly happy that I have been selected for the Japanese national team,” and said, “I will continue to make efforts in the future to ensure that I can play as a soccer player in front of my supporters and fans, and I will do my best.”
He then apologized, saying, “We are very sorry for causing trouble to many people.” After the incident, he said he was enthusiastic about social contribution activities such as reconstruction support and soccer classes, saying, “I will continue to continue to carry out social contribution activities that I can contribute to other areas besides soccer, and I will continue to work hard every day,” he apologized once again, saying, “I am truly sorry.” He participated in Mainz activities in the same month and started in the opening game. He started in all 34 Bundesliga games this season, contributing 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.
