In a move that defies the conventional timeline of a sporting career, Japanese football icon Kazuyoshi Miura has signed for J3 League club Fukushima United. The veteran striker, who turns 59 in February, is set to extend his remarkable professional journey into an unprecedented 41st season.
A Timeless Passion for the Game
The deal, confirmed by the club, will see "King Kazu" join on a loan arrangement until June 2026. In a powerful statement released by Fukushima United, Miura made clear that age has not dimmed his fire. "My passion for football hasn't changed, no matter how old I get," he declared. "I'm very grateful to be given the opportunity to play in Fukushima, and I will fight hard as a member of Fukushima United. Let's make history together!"
This transfer marks a significant return for Miura. He last played within the official J. League pyramid – which encompasses Japan's top three divisions – five years ago. The previous season saw him feature for fourth-tier side Atletico Suzuka, where he made seven appearances before the team suffered relegation to a regional league.
Embracing a New Challenge in Fukushima
Miura now joins a Fukushima United side that finished 10th in the 20-team J3 League last season. The legendary forward has already issued a rallying cry to his new community. "To all the Fukushima United players, coaching staff, fans, sponsors and people in the local area, I promise that I will play with everything I have to make a contribution," he added.
The career of Kazuyoshi Miura is the stuff of football folklore. He began his professional journey back in 1986 with Brazilian giants Santos. Since then, his boots have graced pitches in Italy, Croatia, Australia, and Portugal. He was a pivotal figure in popularising football in Japan during the launch of the J. League in 1993.
A National Team Legacy and Beyond
On the international stage, Miura earned 89 caps for Japan, scoring an impressive 55 goals. He remains one of only three Japanese players to have passed the half-century mark for the national team, alongside Kunishige Kamamoto and Shinji Okazaki. His omission from Japan's 1998 World Cup squad remains a controversial chapter in the nation's football history.
His athletic versatility is further proven by his representation of Japan in futsal at the age of 45, even competing at the Futsal World Cup in 2012. Off the pitch, Miura has been married to former actress and model Risako Shitara since 1993, and the couple have two children, Ryota and Kota.
The signing of King Kazu is more than a football transfer; it is a testament to enduring passion, professional dedication, and the timeless love for the beautiful game.
