Joao Mendes, who plays for Hull City’s academy, says he does not feel weighed down by being the son of Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho.
The 20-year-old wide player joined the Championship side on a one-year contract in September, following a spell with Burnley’s youth ranks last season.
Ronaldinho’s illustrious career included triumphs in the 2002 World Cup, the Champions League, and a Ballon d’Or, with spells at Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, and AC Milan. Despite the legacy, Mendes insists he sees himself as an individual rather than a continuation of his father’s fame.
“I don’t feel any pressure. I’ve always been clear in my mind that I’m me and he’s him,” he told BBC Radio Humberside. “It’s normal that people will look at me as his son, but that doesn’t change how I play. It doesn’t bother me at all.”
Learning to tune out the noise
Mendes shared that his family has helped him stay grounded, encouraging him to ignore outside opinions and focus on enjoying the game.
“All my family always say to me it’s just noise, and I don’t need to listen to any of it,” he explained. “I just need to be happy playing football.”
Before moving to England in August 2024, the young Brazilian spent time developing in Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy. He said he is proud of his father’s achievements and has even invited him to visit Hull.
Mendes added that his childhood involved limited time with Ronaldinho due to his father’s demanding playing career, which included stints at several Brazilian clubs.
Building fitness and chasing first-team dreams
Since joining Hull after missing pre-season, Mendes has been focused on improving his conditioning and earning minutes for the Under-21 side.
“I’m just working hard to earn my spot,” he said. “The main objective is to make it to the first team.”
He admitted that his fitness levels were not ideal upon arrival but praised the club’s staff for supporting his adaptation. “The coaches understand and help me a lot,” Mendes added.
