Kazuyoshi Miura: World’s Oldest Football Player Intends to Play Professional Football Until Age 60

• Kazuyoshi Miura, who holds the accolade of being the world's oldest footballer, has revealed plans for his playing career
• Miura began his career in 1986 and has played across four different decades
• He currently plies his trade in the Portuguese second division with Oliveirense, on loan from Yokohama FC

Kazuyoshi Miura has revealed his intentions to play professional football until age 60.

Affectionately called "King Kazu", Miura holds the record for being the world's oldest footballer, having begun his age-defying career in 1986 with Brazilian giants Santos.

Miura's football journey has seen him grace the rosters of several renowned clubs worldwide, including Palmeiras, Genoa, Dinamo Zagreb, and Vissel Kobe. He is currently playing for Portuguese side Oliveirense, on loan from Yokohama FC.

Having played in six countries over an epic 37-year career, the 56-year-old Miura highlighted the importance of his playing mates and coaching staff in his age-defying status as the world's oldest footballer.

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“If I did not get help from the players and the coach, I would not be here," Miura told Sport TV, as quoted by Daily Post.

Despite most footballers calling time on their careers at an average age of 35, the former Japanese striker has plans to play football at the professional level as far as his body can take him in the coming years.

“I am very grateful to the team and all the people who are around the team. I intend to play until I’m 60.”

He made 89 appearances for the Blue Samurai of Japan, with his notable achievements including clinching the Asian Cup in 1992 and securing the position of the country's second-highest goal scorer, with an impressive tally of 55 goals.

However, since 2000 he has not represented the 2002 World Cup co-hosts, despite his vast experience and longevity, per the Guardian.

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Miura joins new club

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Kazuyoshi Miura, who turned 55 in February, has signed for yet another club on loan from Yokohama FC.

With Yokohama FC last season, Miura was devoid of playing minutes, only managing to play for a single minute as the club suffered relegation.

His brief cameo against Urawa Reds in March, aged 54 years and 12 days, helped him make further history of being the oldest football player to feature in an official match.