On 19 April 2025, Barça Academy Nara celebrated a milestone: Daichi Kawai, who joined in its first year of 2018 intake, made his professional debut for Nara Club in Japan’s J3 League. It was a dream come true for a young man who embodies Barça football and values.

But the story doesn’t end there. The same year, Daichi returned “home” to join Barça Academy Nara’s coaching staff alongside his father, Wataru Kawai. Back in 2018 the family, based in Mie Prefecture, would drive more than two hours each way so he could train at one of the academy’s two sites, a dedication that made him a role-model from the start.

Wonderful example

Daichi’s journey is inseparable from his family. His younger brothers, Mizuki and Ayato, have also worn the Barça Academy Nara shirt, making the Kawais a truly culer household. Daichi’s lifelong idol is Andrés Iniesta, and today he inspires new generations with the same humility, commitment and love for the game.

Dream come true

During his academy years Daichi represented Barça Academy Nara at the 2019 Barça Academy APAC Tournament in India, along with many local competitions. He graduated in 2019 to continue his development at the renowned youth club Amazing Academy (Yamanashi), playing there for three seasons before returning to Nara, this time to make his professional dream a reality.