‘Let’s make history’ – Miura, 58, joins new club

Kazuyoshi Miura, who turns 59 in February and is the oldest professional football player in the world, has agreed to work with Japanese third division side Fukushima United on loan until June.

Miura will now be able to join the J. For the first time in five years, League, the top three divisions of Japanese football, is playing.

The former Japan international, who made seven starts on loan at fourth-tier club Atletico Suzuka last season, struggled to score in 69 minutes in total. He started his career with Brazilian side Santos in 1986.

As he gears up for a professional football career of his own, he said, “My passion for football hasn’t changed, no matter how old I get.”

“I’m very appreciative of having this opportunity. I’ve made a promise to use everything I have to contribute. Make history with each other”!

This will be Miura’s fourth loan from Yokohama FC since 2022, and he is known as “King Kazu” in Japan.

Miura signed for the club in 2005, but hasn’t played a minute since 2020. He has also played club football in Italy, Croatia, and Australia.

In 89 international games, he scored 55 goals, two years after missing Japan’s first World Cup finals appearance, making a notable absence. His international career ended in 2000.

Miura, who has been relegated to Japan’s regional leagues last season, said he was ready to “take on a new challenge” and has spoken about playing until he is 60.