<strong>We can forge a legacy'</strong> - Miura, 58, signs with new team.

The legendary Japanese striker, set to turn 59 next month and is the world's oldest professional footballer, has agreed to a loan deal until June with J3 League club Fukushima United.

The transfer means Miura could play in the Japanese professional league - the top three divisions of Japanese football - for the first time in half a decade.

The ex-international forward, who began his professional journey with the Brazilian club Santos in 1986, failed to score in just over an hour across seven outings last season while on loan at JFL side Atletico Suzuka.

"My passion for football hasn't changed, no matter how old I get," he said as he gears up for a forty-first campaign as a pro footballer.
"I am truly thankful to be given this opportunity. I vow I will play with all my heart to help the team. Together, we can create a legacy!"

Known as 'King Kazu' in Japan, this will be Miura's fourth temporary move since 2022 from second division club Yokohama FC.

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

He scored 55 goals in 89 games in an career for the national team that ended in 2000, two years after his notable omission from the squad for Japan's maiden FIFA World Cup campaign.

The footballer, who has expressed a desire for playing until he is 60, said he was ready to "take on a new challenge" after being relegated last season to Japan's regional leagues.

Fukushima finished 10th in the 20-team J3 League last season.

Charles Simon
Charles Simon

A seasoned luxury travel writer and lifestyle curator with over a decade of experience exploring exclusive destinations across the UK and Europe.