Future Brazil star?
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Hull City have completed the signing of João Mendes, son of Brazil icon Ronaldinho, on a one-year deal. The 20-year-old has experience of English football after spending last season with Burnley’s U21s but he’s yet to make his professional debut.
Mendes was a regular for Burnley’s youth side after moving to England after his dream of following in his legendary father’s footsteps with Barcelona ended in 2024. The winger joined the Catalan giants’ famed La Masia academy in 2023 after impressing in a trial against Manchester United but he was released just 18 months later.
Ronaldinho’s son joins Hull City
Mendes’ father Ronaldinho was one of the most naturally gifted players of his generation and played 207 times for Barcelona. The iconic left-winger won 97 caps for Brazil, winning the 2002 World Cup and Ronaldinho famously lifted the Ballon d’Or in 2005. Mendes will struggle to emulate his father’s career but he expressed his delight after joining Hull City, where he will be part of their U21 Squad.
“I am really happy and excited. I think it is going to be a good season. “I play as a right winger or an attacking midfielder. I am a fast, explosive and creative player. I think it is good to be able to play in different styles of football. In Brazil, it is one style, Spain is another one and England is another one so I think it compliments your game really well if you have played at different places.”