Saito was born in Saitama on July 27, 1951. After graduating from Hosei University, he joined his local club Mitsubishi Motors in 1974. The club won the 2nd place in Japan Soccer League for 4 years in a row (1974-1977). In 1978, the club won all three major title in Japan; Japan Soccer League, JSL Cup and Emperor's Cup. The club also won 1980 Emperor's Cup, 1981 JSL Cup and 1982 Japan Soccer League. However, the club finished at the bottom place in 1988/89 season and was relegated Division 2. He retired end of 1988/89 season. He played 248 games and scored 3 goals in the league. He was selected Best Eleven in 1975, 1977 and 1978.