Miura, 58, Joins Fukushima United On Loan

• Kazuyoshi Miura has joined Fukushima United on loan until June
• The move could bring his first J.League appearance in five years
• Miura says his motivation remains unchanged as he nears 59

Kazuyoshi Miura, the world’s oldest professional footballer, has signed a loan deal until June with Japanese third division side Fukushima United.

Miura is 58 and turns 59 in February. The move puts him back in the J.League system, meaning he could feature in Japan’s top three divisions for the first time in five years.

The former Japan striker began his professional career with Brazilian club Santos in 1986. He is now preparing for a 41st season as a professional.

“My passion for football hasn’t changed, no matter how old I get,” he said.

“I’m very grateful to be given this opportunity. I promise I will play with everything I have to make a contribution. Let’s make history together!”

Miura is known as King Kazu in Japan. This is his fourth loan move from J2 League club Yokohama FC since 2022. He signed for Yokohama FC in 2005, yet he has not played a minute for the club since 2020.

Last season, Miura played seven times on loan for fourth tier side Atletico Suzuka. He did not score, playing 69 minutes in total.

Miura also played club football in Italy, Croatia and Australia. For Japan, he scored 55 goals in 89 games. His international career ended in 2000, two years after he was left out of the squad for Japan’s first World Cup finals appearance.

Miura has spoken about playing until 60. He said he was ready to “take on a new challenge” following relegation last season to Japan’s regional leagues.

Fukushima finished 10th in the 20 team third division last season.