Kazuyoshi Miura, affectionately known as 'King Kazu,' has left an indelible mark on the sport of football through his remarkable career, which spanned decades and saw him achieve numerous milestones. Miura's journey in football began long before the advent of the J-League, with his early career taking him to Brazil in 1982. He returned to Japan in 1990, becoming a pivotal figure in the establishment and growth of professional football in his home country.
He was instrumental in the Yomiuri SC's dominance, leading them to consecutive JSL titles in 1991 and 1992, and then to the first two J1 League titles as Verdy Kawasaki in 1993 and 1994. His individual brilliance was recognized with the first J. League MVP award in 1993. Miura's impact extended beyond Japan's borders when he became the first Japanese footballer to play in Italy's Serie A, joining Genoa in the 1994-95 season. His international career was equally distinguished; he represented Japan from 1990 to 2000, earning 89 caps and scoring 55 goals, making him the second-highest goalscorer in the national team's history. He was a key player in Japan's triumph at the 1992 Asian Cup, where he was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player. His prolific scoring in the 1998 World Cup qualifiers, netting 14 goals in 13 matches, was crucial in guiding Japan to their first-ever World Cup appearance, though he was controversially omitted from the final squad.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Miura is celebrated for his extraordinary longevity. Even into his fifties, he continued to break records, becoming the oldest player to score in a professional match and the oldest to play in Japan's J1 League. As of 2025, he remains one of the oldest active professional footballers globally, having played in five different decades. Miura's career was not without its challenges, including the national team's heartbreaking failure to qualify for the 1994 World Cup, an event known as the 'Agony of Doha.' However, these moments of adversity only seemed to fuel his enduring spirit and commitment to the sport. Kazuyoshi Miura's legacy transcends statistics; he is an inspiration, a symbol of dedication, and a testament to the power of pursuing one's passion relentlessly. His contributions have shaped Japanese football and continue to resonate with fans worldwide, embodying a spirit that embraces growth and perseverance through every stage of a remarkable journey.