+18 | Commercial Content | T&C's Apply | Play Responsibly | Publishing Principles
kazuyoshi-miura(C)Getty Images
Soham Mukherjee

Kazuyoshi Miura to play beyond 59th birthday as Japan legend signs for new club

Japan legend Kazuyoshi Miura, who will celebrate his 59th birthday in February, has agreed a six-month loan move to Fukushima United, extending a professional career that now stretches into a remarkable fifth decade. The agreement means Miura could feature in the J.League, encompassing Japan’s top three divisions, for the first time in five years.

  • Passion that refuses to fade

    Miura has insisted that his love for the game remains the fuel that drives him forward. Preparing for what will be his 41st season as a professional footballer, the veteran made it clear that the fire still burns. 

    "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!"

    Nicknamed ‘King Kazu’ in his homeland, Miura’s journey began far from Japan. He started his professional career with Santos in 1986, immersing himself in Brazilian football culture at a time when few Japanese players ventured abroad. Miura would go on to play club football in Italy, Croatia and Australia, building a global resume long before such moves became commonplace for Asian players.

    • Advertisement
  • Yokohama FC v Ehime FC - J.LEAGUE J2J.LEAGUE

    Recent struggles and renewed resolve

    Since 2005, Miura has been registered with Yokohama FC, although his time there has largely been spent on loan. This latest switch to Fukushima United marks his fourth loan move since 2022.  Last season, Miura spent time on loan at fourth-tier Atletico Suzuka, where minutes were limited. He made seven appearances, totalling just 69 minutes, and did not find the net. 

    Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!

  • Miura's international legacy

    Miura scored 55 goals in 89 appearances for Japan, establishing himself as one of the country’s most recognisable footballing figures. His last cap came in 2000, two years after he failed to make the cut in Japan’s squad for their first-ever World Cup finals. Since then, he has even represented his country in futsal, earning six appearances alongside his enduring club career. 

    • ENJOYED THIS STORY?

    Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

  • Nagoya Grampus Eight v Verdy Kawasaki - J.League 2nd StageJ.LEAGUE

    Looking ahead to a fresh start at 59

    Setbacks have rarely discouraged him. After relegation to Japan’s regional leagues, Miura spoke about his readiness to "take on a new challenge", a mindset that has once again shaped his next move. Fukushima United, who finished 10th in the 20-team third division last season, offer a fresh environment and a new chapter.

0