Sawanobori was born in Fujinomiya on January 12, 1970. After graduating from Tokai University, he joined new club Shimizu S-Pulse based in his local Shizuoka Prefecture in 1992. He played as regular player from first season. He was selected J.League Rookie of the Year in 1993. In 1996, the club won J.League Cup. In 1999, the club won the 2nd place in J1 League and he was selected Japanese Footballer of the Year awards. In Asia, the club also won 1999–2000 Asian Cup Winners' Cup. In 2001, the club won Emperor's Cup. He retired in 2005. He played 381 games and scored 85 goals in the league. Sawanobori was immensely popular at S-Pulse, and having spent his entire career at the club he was affectionately known as Mr S-Pulse.
In April 1993, Sawanobori was selected Japan national team for 1994 World Cup qualification. At this qualification, on April 8, he debuted against Thailand. In 1994, he also played at 1994 Asian Games. In September 1999, he played for Japan for the first time in 5 years. In 2000, he played at 2000 Asian Cup qualification. This qualification was his last game for Japan. He played 16 games and scored 3 goals for Japan until 2000.[1]
United Arab Emirates
Myanmar
Brunei
