Kazuyoshi Miura, the boy who became KING

The Japanese have romanticised the concept of Kaizen – the pursuit of continuous improvement. Traditionally the word would be associated craftsmen or in business, most famously adopted by Toyota. Kazu is the very embodiment of this philosophy.

When asked by reporters about his future, he bursts out in laughter. “I might (retire) someday.”

He composes himself and with a straight face “If possible, I want to die as a player. That is my true feeling. So when I die, I want to be known as Kazuyoshi Miura, soccer player. Not a former player.”

Defender Bojan Malisic still enjoying his football after 20 years of playing the Beautiful Game

“Technically, Indonesian football is slightly better than Hong Kong’s. Having said that, not all the clubs are technically good but in each of the league, there will be 3-4 teams that will be outstanding. And in terms of game play, Indonesian football is definitely more aggressive and intensive. In fact, I would rate Indonesian football 80% more aggressive than in Hong Kong! Especially since I am playing as a defender, I have the clear view of the entire play from behind. It is always full of action for 90 minutes. Indonesian league is certainly a more challenging league to be playing in”