João Mendes Embraces Own Path in English Football, Defies Legacy Pressure

João Mendes, 20-year-old son of Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho Gaúcho, is forging his professional career in England, determined to establish his own identity amid high expectations tied to his famous father. Currently playing for Hull City's Under-21 team, João has openly dismissed the notion that he feels pressured by his father's legacy. In a BBC interview, he said, "It's normal for people to see me as his son, but that doesn't affect me at all, nor does it influence my way of playing. I don't care at all. I have always been clear that I am me and he is he."

João Mendes began his football journey at the age of 13 with Cruzeiro, where he spent four formative seasons before joining Barcelona's youth ranks—a move facilitated by Ronaldinho. After his contract with Barcelona ended in June 2024, João transitioned to Burnley's U21 squad, where he made a promising impact by scoring two goals and providing two assists over five matches. In September 2025, he signed with Hull City and has since participated in one U21 match.

Despite the inevitable comparisons to Ronaldinho, João emphasizes family support in managing expectations and focusing on his own happiness and growth in football. He is well aware that his father was already distinguishing himself at a young age for clubs like Grêmio and the Brazilian national team, but he remains grounded in his own journey.

João Mendes's clear assertion of individuality highlights the challenges and hopes of a young athlete balancing personal ambitions with a powerful legacy, underscoring his determination to be recognized on his own merits within the competitive environment of English football.