King Kazu Signs for 41st Professional Season at Age 58

JAPAN : The world’s oldest professional goalscorer, Kazuyoshi Miura, has proved once again that his hunger for the beautiful game is insatiable. On Tuesday, the Japanese icon known globally as “King Kazu” signed with third-division side Fukushima United on a loan deal that will see him play through his 41st professional season.

Miura, who turns 59 in February, returns to the J. League—the top three tiers of Japanese football—for the first time in five years.

In a statement released by Fukushima United, Miura expressed his unwavering commitment to the sport. “My passion for football hasn’t changed, no matter how old I get,” said the former national team star. “I am very grateful to be given the opportunity to play in Fukushima… Let’s make history together!”

Miura spent the previous season with Atletico Suzuka in the fourth tier. Despite his presence, the team struggled, making only seven appearances as Suzuka was relegated. His move to Fukushima United, who finished 10th in the J3 league last season, represents a significant step back into the professional spotlight.

Fukushima United officials expressed excitement about the signing, citing Miura’s elite mentality and leadership as invaluable assets for the squad as they look to climb the J3 standings in 2026.

Miura’s career began in Brazil with Santos in 1986, long before many of his new teammates were born. He was the face of the J. League’s launch in 1993 and remains the only player active from that inaugural season. While he famously missed out on Japan’s 1998 World Cup squad, his legacy of 55 goals in 89 international appearances remains one of the most respected in Asian football history.