<strong>Together, let's forge history'</strong> - Kazuyoshi Miura, 58, joins a fresh football side.

Kazuyoshi Miura, set to turn 59 next month and is recognized globally as football's most senior pro, has agreed to a temporary transfer until June with Japanese third division side Fukushima United.

The transfer means Miura might feature in the J.League - encompassing the highest tiers of Japanese football - for the first time in five years.

The ex-international forward, who began his professional journey with Brazilian side Santos in 1986, failed to score in 69 minutes across seven outings last season while on loan at fourth-tier club Atletico Suzuka.

"My passion for football hasn't changed, no matter how old I get," he said as he prepares for a 41st season as a professional footballer.
"I am truly thankful to be presented with this chance. I promise I will play with all my heart to help the team. Together, we can create a legacy!"

Referred to as 'King Kazu' in Japan, this will be Miura's fourth loan since 2022 from J2 League side Yokohama FC.

The veteran, who has also featured in Italy, Croatia and Australia, signed for the club in 2005 but has not played a minute for them since 2020.

He netted 55 goals in 89 games in an career for the national team that ended in 2000, shortly following his surprising exclusion from the squad for Japan's maiden FIFA World Cup campaign.

Miura, who has expressed a desire for continuing his career into his seventh decade, said he was ready to "take on a new challenge" after being demoted last season to Japan's regional leagues.

Fukushima United ended the season in tenth place in the 20-team J3 League last season.

Donald Davis
Donald Davis

An architect and historian with a passion for documenting grand palaces and innovative spatial designs across cultures.