Captain Tsubasa Creator Youichi Takahashi Announces Retirement from Manga Serialization
Manga artist Youichi Takahashi, creator of Captain Tsubasa, has announced his retirement from serializing the long-running manga franchise. The final issue of Captain Tsubasa Magazine will feature the concluding chapters of the series, marking the end of an era.
Captain Tsubasa Creator Youichi Takahashi Announces Retirement
Youichi Takahashi, the creative mind behind Captain Tsubasa, has made the decision to retire from serializing his beloved manga franchise. This announcement comes as a surprise to fans worldwide, as they bid farewell to a series that has captured their hearts for decades.
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The 19th issue of Shueisha’s Captain Tsubasa Magazine revealed Takahashi’s retirement, announcing the upcoming final issue. The magazine will include the concluding chapters of the manga series, featuring Captain Tsubasa: Rising Sun The Final and Captain Tsubasa Memories 4: Saikyō! Meiwa FC Densetsu. Fans can anticipate the release of the 20th and final issue in early April.
In a heartfelt statement, Takahashi expressed that he had contemplated the manga’s future for years. Recognizing the immense time commitment required to complete the story, he made the difficult decision to conclude the serialization. Takahashi, who is over 60 years old, cited health concerns such as deteriorating eyesight and dizziness from presbyopia as factors influencing his retirement. Additionally, the impact of COVID-19 on the staff structure, the shift to digital manga drawing methods, and the passing of Shinji Mizushima, the creator of Dokaben baseball manga, all influenced his choice.
Despite stepping away from serializing the manga, Takahashi expressed his desire to continue the story through storyboards. This leaves room for future possibilities and potential adaptations of the beloved franchise.
A Legendary Manga Series Comes to an End
Captain Tsubasa, initially serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump magazine from 1981 to 1988, has become a cultural phenomenon. With 37 volumes and a devoted fanbase, the manga has sparked various adaptations, including four TV anime series, four anime films, several OVAs, and even a stage play. Its popularity has transcended borders, with translations and publications in approximately 20 countries worldwide.
The story revolves around Tsubasa Ōzora, a young protagonist whose passion for soccer knows no bounds. Tsubasa embarks on a journey to Brazil with his coach Roberto, where he trains for the World Cup.
Continuing the original series, Captain Tsubasa: Rising Sun follows Tsubasa’s aspirations to represent Japan in the Olympics. The manga initially debuted in Shueisha’s Grand Jump magazine in December 2013 before relocating to Captain Tsubasa Magazine in April 2020.
The final saga: Captain Tsubasa: Rising Sun The Final, began in the 16th issue of Captain Tsubasa Magazine last April. It marks a new arc and a rebranding of the Captain Tsubasa: Rising Sun manga.
Looking Ahead and Honoring a Legacy
As the Captain Tsubasa manga series concludes, fans take a moment to contemplate its profound impact on their lives. Youichi Takahashi’s creation, forever treasured, introduced the world of soccer to manga and ignited the imaginations of readers of all ages.
Fans can find solace in knowing that the story may continue through Takahashi’s storyboards. This opens up possibilities for future adaptations and keeps the spirit of Captain Tsubasa alive.
As we bid farewell to Captain Tsubasa, we celebrate the incredible journey it has taken us on and the memories it has created. Thank you, Youichi Takahashi, for sharing your passion and talent with the world.
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