Ｊ２昇格は“使命”　福島ユナイテッドFCが始動　キングがハマる食堂のおばちゃんも力に！？ (26/07/10 19:25)

With just one month until the start of the new season, Fukushima United FC, home to King Kazu, is also getting ready to achieve their long-held dream! ■ Promotion to J2 is a Mission Fukushima United FC has started their 13th season in J3 with strong determination. In the Centennial League, where they competed against J2 clubs, they recorded 28 goals, placing third in their group. Manager Terada's preferred style of attacking football, which aims to break down opponents with beautiful passing, is steadily evolving. Manager Terada Shuhei said, "After the Centennial League, which offered some good trials and challenges, being able to enter this 26/27 season with largely the same members means we can continue our style, which is very exciting. I'm also very much looking forward to getting off to a great start to the season, unlike anything we've done before." ■ The Birth of a 60-Year-Old J-League Player One week after the team's start, on July 3rd, King Kazu, Kazuyoshi Miura, joined the new team. "I want to achieve results under Manager Terada's style of football," he said, renewing his contract. The legend, who will turn 60 in February 2027, will contribute his wealth of experience to the team both on and off the pitch. Miura expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "I don't think this will be an easy season, so everyone needs to be prepared. I want us all to show that determination from practice onwards." ■What the King is into More than 500 supporters packed the field for the send-off ceremony held on July 5th. The two new signings from J1 clubs Mito and Nagasaki introduced themselves, looking a little nervous. *Forward #44 Koya Okuda (permanent transfer from Mito) Defender #37 Naru Sasaki (loan from Nagasaki) A "talk event" was held with the players, and Miura's revelation of "what he's been into lately" had the audience roaring with laughter. "I've started going to a diner. I've become quite fond of the lady who runs it. When I ask her, 'What's the best ramen? Which one do you recommend?', she answers, 'Fried rice.' When I finish eating and leave, I say I'll come again, and she tells me, 'You don't have to come again.' I feel like I'm going there just to hear that." He says the food is absolutely delicious, but he's really drawn to the humorous lady who runs the place. ■United as One for the New Season Players and supporters, who have laughed together, deepened their bonds, and shared the direction the club is aiming for, are united as they head into the new season. Player Takeaki Harigaya expressed his determination, saying, "I believe the players will fight for Fukushima with their lives on the line so that we can definitely achieve our goal of promotion to J2. Please continue to support us for another year."