After retirement, Sano coached at Yokohama Marinos (1993–96), Yokohama Flügels (1997-98) and Kyoto Purple Sanga (1999-03). He signed with J2 League club Thespa Kusatsu in 2005 and became a manager in 2009. In 2010, he moved to Japan Football League (JFL) club V-Varen Nagasaki. In 2012 season, however the club won the champions and was promoted to J2 League, he resigned end of the season. In 2013, he signed with Regional Leagues club Saurcos Fukui. He moved to JFL club Verspah Oita in 2016. He resigned in 2017.