Source: REUTERS/Richard Wainwright
[Saba Sports News] Since Japanese international Kaishu Sano exposed his sexual scandal, even though he has publicly apologized, it seems very difficult for him to return to the national team. It is reported that key players of the Japanese national team, such as Takumi Minamino and Kaoru Mitoma, oppose his recall to the national team. Sexual assault is a serious violation of moral ethics. Even if the prosecution ultimately decides not to press charges, his actions have already caused harm to the victim and triggered public negative emotions. Fellow teammates oppose his return based on adherence to moral principles, believing that national team members should possess good character and behavior standards to uphold the team’s image and values. Allowing a player with such negative incidents to return may lead the public to believe that the national team does not take moral issues seriously and could even have a negative impact on young fans. Additionally, Japanese national team sponsors generally worry that Zano Kaishu’s return could damage the team’s image. Sponsors are an important source of financial support for the team, and their intentions may affect the operation of the national team.