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<strong>Together, let's make a legacy'</strong> - Miura, fifty-eight, signs with a fresh team.

The legendary Japanese striker, who turns 59 in February and is the world's oldest professional footballer, has finalized a loan deal until June with J3 League club Fukushima United.

The transfer means Miura could play in the Japanese professional league - encompassing the highest tiers of Japanese football - for the first time in five years.

The former Japan striker, who began his professional journey with the Brazilian club Santos in 1986, did not find the net in just over an hour across seven appearances last season while on loan at fourth-tier club Atletico Suzuka.

"My love for the game hasn't changed, no matter how old I get," he said as he gears up for a 41st season as a pro footballer.
"I'm very grateful to be given this opportunity. I promise I will play with all my heart to make a contribution. Together, we can create a legacy!"

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

Miura, who has also featured in Australia, Italy, and Croatia, signed for the club in 2005 but has remained absent from the pitch for them since 2020.

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

Miura, who has expressed a desire for playing until he is 60, said he was ready to "embrace a fresh test" after being relegated last season to the country's lower regional divisions.

Fukushima finished 10th in the 20-team third division last season.

Written by

Hunter Carrillo

Lena is a Dutch travel writer and cultural enthusiast who loves sharing hidden gems of the Netherlands.

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