Kazuyoshi Miura, who turns 59 in February and is the world’s oldest skilled footballer, has signed a mortgage deal till June with Japanese third division aspect Fukushima United.

The transfer means Miura might play within the J.League – the highest three divisions of Japanese soccer – for the primary time in 5 years.

The previous Japan striker, who began his profession with Brazilian aspect Santos in 1986, failed to attain in 69 minutes throughout seven appearances final season on mortgage at fourth-tier membership Atletico Suzuka.

“My ardour for soccer hasn’t modified, regardless of how previous I get,” he mentioned as he prepares for a forty first season as knowledgeable footballer.

“I am very grateful to be given this chance. I promise I’ll play with every thing I’ve to make a contribution. Let’s make historical past collectively!”

Often called ‘King Kazu’ in Japan, this might be Miura’s fourth mortgage since 2022 from J2 League aspect Yokohama FC.

Miura, who has additionally performed membership soccer in Italy, Croatia and Australia, signed for the membership in 2005 however has not performed a minute for them since 2020.

He scored 55 targets in 89 video games in a global profession that resulted in 2000, two years after his notable omission from the squad for Japan’s first World Cup finals look.

Miura, who has talked of taking part in till he’s 60, mentioned he was able to “tackle a brand new problem” after being relegated final season to Japan’s regional leagues.

Fukushima completed tenth within the 20-team third division final season.