PHOTO: Creator of 'Captain Tsubasa' produces special drawing for Barcelona

Yoichi Takahashi, the creator of popular manga cartoon "Captain Tsubasa," is well-known for loving all things Barcelona.

Takahashi, who became a football fan during the 1978 World Cup, admits that he draws while he watches the Catalan club play, and loves the Camp Nou as well as the Blaugrana's philosophy.

It should therefore come as no surprise that Takahashi was present at Barcelona's official reception on Saturday in Tokyo, Japan, where the club was preparing for the final of the Club World Cup. Coinciding with the team's visit, the genius artist produced a special drawing of Barcelona's first team, which depicts Neymar, Andres Iniesta - his favourite player - Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Gerard Pique.

(Courtesy: Barcelona)

The respect between Takahashi and Barcelona is mutual. Last year, manager Luis Enrique showed off his knowledge of popular culture by saying: "I see Messi training every day and he does things you can't even see in 'Captain Tsubasa or on PlayStation."

For those who are unfamiliar with "Captain Tsubasa," here's the show's theme song from 1983.