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<strong>We can make a legacy'</strong> - Miura, fifty-eight, joins a fresh football side.

The legendary Japanese striker, who turns 59 in February 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.

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

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

"My passion for football remains undimmed, regardless of my age," he said as he prepares for a 41st season as a professional footballer.
"I'm very grateful to be given this opportunity. I vow I will play with everything I have to help the team. Together, we can create a legacy!"

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

The veteran, who has also featured in Italy, Croatia and Australia, signed for the club in 2005 but has remained absent from the pitch 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 maiden FIFA World Cup campaign.

Miura, who has expressed a desire for continuing his career into his seventh decade, said he was ready to "take on a new challenge" after being demoted last season to the country's lower regional divisions.

Fukushima United finished 10th in the twenty-club third division last season.

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Christine Smith

Environmental journalist and sustainability advocate with over a decade of experience covering Canadian climate policy and green innovations.

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