Kazuyoshi Miura, the world’s oldest professional footballer, has joined Japanese third-division side Fukushima United on loan until June, continuing a remarkable career that will enter its 41st season. The former Japan international turns 59 in February.
The move opens the door for Miura to feature in the J.League system for the first time in five years, marking another chapter in a career defined as much by longevity as by its global reach.
Miura, widely known in Japan as “King Kazu”, began his professional journey with Brazilian giants Santos in 1986 and has since played club football across several countries, including Italy, Croatia and Australia. Despite signing for J2 League side Yokohama FC in 2005, he has not made a competitive appearance for the club since 2020 and has instead spent recent seasons on loan. This will be his fourth loan move since 2022.
His most recent spell came last season with fourth-tier Atletico Suzuka, where he made seven appearances, totalling 69 minutes, without finding the net. Fukushima United, who finished 10th in the 20-team third division last season, will hope Miura’s experience and profile can provide both on-field support and off-field inspiration.
Speaking after completing the move, Miura emphasised that his motivation remains undiminished despite his age.
“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.”
At international level, Miura scored 55 goals in 89 appearances for Japan before his international career ended in 2000. His legacy also includes the notable omission from Japan’s squad for their first-ever World Cup appearance in 1998, a decision that remains a major talking point in the country’s football history.
Having spoken openly about his ambition to continue playing until the age of 60, Miura described the move as a chance to “take on a new challenge” following relegation last season to Japan’s regional leagues. For Fukushima United, the arrival of King Kazu represents both a unique sporting story and a symbolic boost as they look to progress in the J.League pyramid.
