Joao Mendes: Ronaldinho’s son on looking to make his own path at Hull City

Hull City academy winger Joao Mendes has said he does not feel extra pressure because he is the son of Brazil legend Ronaldinho.

The 20-year-old joined the Tigers on a one-year deal in September after spending last season in Burnley’s youth set-up.

His father won the 2002 World Cup, Champions League and Ballon d’Or in a career that saw him play for Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and AC Milan.

“I don’t feel any pressure. I’ve always had it clear in my mind that I’m me and he’s him,” he told BBC Radio Humberside.

“It’s normal that you’re going to see me as his son but that doesn’t affect me or the way I play. I don’t care at all.”

He added: “All my family always say to me it is just noise and I don’t need to listen to any of it. I just need to be happy playing football.”

The Brazilian, who spent time in Barcelona’s La Masia academy before making the move to England in August 2024, said he was “proud” to be Ronaldinho’s son and had invited him to Hull.

He said he did not spend much time with his father when he was growing up because of his career, which also saw the forward play for five clubs in his native Brazil.

Mendes is now looking to build up his game-time with Hull’s Under-21s, having joined the club after missing pre-season.

“I’m just working hard to earn my spot. The main objective is to make it to the first team,” he said.

“The fitness level wasn’t there when I joined so I’m working on that. The coaches understand and help me a lot.”