Conclusion of a Legacy: 'Captain Tsubasa' Manga Wraps Up its 43-Year Journey

The iconic Japanese manga series, known internationally as "Captain Majid" in Arab countries, has reached its final chapter, marking the conclusion of a four-decade era that commenced in 1981. Created by Yoichi Takahashi, the series gained widespread popularity after its debut in the weekly Japanese magazine Shonen Jump.

The narrative centers around Tsubasa Ozora, a young football prodigy who served as an inspiration for subsequent football legends like Zinedine Zidane, Kylian Mbappé, and Lionel Messi. The series underwent various adaptations, including animated versions and video games, and even led to the installation of statues in Tokyo, the birthplace of Takahashi.

At the age of 63, Takahashi decided to conclude the series in early April, citing declining health and changes in the manga industry. Despite acknowledging potential disappointment from fans, he expressed hope for their understanding. The "Captain Tsubasa" anime series achieved global reach, airing in over 100 countries, while the manga sold approximately 90 million copies worldwide, as reported by "Mangazinkan."

Takahashi's passion for football, kindled during the 1978 World Cup, motivated him to promote the sport's popularity in Japan, where the domestic football league didn't commence until 1993. As the president and owner of the football club "Nankatsu SC," Takahashi highlighted the significance of local club support in Europe, a concept he aimed to instill in Japan. Establishing "Nankatsu SC" was a personal initiative to foster a local club culture in his homeland.

In essence, the conclusion of "Captain Tsubasa" not only marks the end of a cherished manga series but also commemorates a cultural icon that left a profound impact on the global realms of football and popular culture.