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<strong>We can forge history'</strong> - Miura, 58, moves to new football side.

The legendary Japanese striker, set to turn 59 next month and is recognized globally as football's most senior pro, has agreed to a loan deal until June with Japanese third division side Fukushima United.

The transfer means Miura could play in the Japanese professional league - the top three divisions of football in Japan - for the first time in half a decade.

The ex-international forward, who started his career with the Brazilian club Santos in 1986, failed to score in just over an hour across seven appearances last season while on loan at JFL side Atletico Suzuka.

"My love for the game hasn't changed, no matter how old I get," he said as he prepares for a 41st season as a pro footballer.
"I'm very grateful to be presented with this chance. I vow I will play with all my heart to help the team. Together, we can create a legacy!"

Known as 'King Kazu' in Japan, this will be Miura's fourth loan since 2022 from second division club Yokohama FC.

The veteran, who has also played club football in Australia, Italy, and Croatia, joined the club in 2005 but has not played a minute for them since 2020.

He scored 55 goals in 89 games in an international career that concluded in 2000, shortly following his notable omission from the squad for Japan's first World Cup finals appearance.

The footballer, who has talked of continuing his career into his seventh decade, said he was ready to "take on a new challenge" after being demoted last season to Japan's regional leagues.

Fukushima ended the season in tenth place in the 20-team J3 League last season.

The writer

Grace Schwartz

Wildlife biologist specializing in sloth behavior and rainforest ecosystems, with over a decade of field research experience.

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