Ronaldinho’s Son Joao Mendes Focused on His Own Path at Hull City

Ronaldinho’s Son Joao Mendes: Building His Own Football Identity

Ronaldinho’s son Joao Mendes is determined to forge his own legacy at Hull City, undeterred by pressure to match the glittering career of his father, the legendary ex-Barcelona and Brazil superstar. As Mendes works to prove himself in the English Football League, he insists that comparisons with Ronaldinho do not affect his mindset or ambitions.

Journey Across Continents: From Brazil and Barcelona to Hull City

Joao Mendes’ football odyssey has already spanned several continents. Beginning with Brazilian side Cruzeiro, Mendes then made headlines in 2023 by joining Barcelona, the club where his father dazzled football fans worldwide. However, his time in Spain was brief, as he sought to escape the direct shadow of Ronaldinho. After a stint with Burnley, Mendes secured a short-term contract with Hull City in September 2025, keen to focus on personal growth and success away from the overwhelming expectations attached to his surname.

No Pressure to Emulate Ronaldinho

For Mendes, the focus has always been on creating his own story. Speaking to BBC Radio Humberside, he said, “I don’t feel any pressure. I’ve always had it clear in my mind that I’m me and he’s him.” Mendes accepts that many people see him primarily as Ronaldinho’s son, but he remains unfazed: “It doesn’t affect me or the way I play. I just need to be happy playing football.” Supported by his family, Mendes is committed to cutting through the noise and expressing his own talent on the pitch.

Joao Mendes at Hull City: Grit and Determination in the EFL

Currently a member of Hull City’s Under-21 squad, Mendes is working tirelessly to improve his fitness and adapt to the demands of English football. The young attacker, capable of playing both as a winger and attacking midfielder, is focused on breaking into the first team. “I’m just working hard to earn my spot. The main objective is to make it to the first team,” he explained. The coaching staff at Hull City are supporting his development as he navigates both new league challenges and the unique scrutiny that comes with his famous heritage.

Growing Up in Football’s Intense Spotlight

Ronaldinho’s career, with 236 club goals and 12 major trophies, set a benchmark that few can hope to reach. With cameras following his every move, Mendes is acutely aware of the extra attention he receives. “My father and mother never really wanted me to pursue football because they knew what was going to happen,” Mendes revealed. “But when passion speaks louder, you can’t help it.”

Despite the constant comparisons and media attention, Mendes feels only pride in his father’s achievements. “My father was one of the best, if not the best, to ever play the game. So being his son is a source of pride. But I try to do my own thing. I try to play my football my way, without pressure.”

Adapting to Life and Football in England

Adjusting from Brazilian sunshine to the English winter has tested Mendes, but he is embracing the challenge with optimism. “It’s difficult at first, there’s no denying that. Even more so now in winter, it’s a bit worse. If you put on a glove, two socks, we can manage,” he joked. With Hull City chasing promotion from fifth place in the Championship, opportunities may soon arise for Mendes to step up to senior action.

Forging a Unique Legacy

As Joao Mendes continues his journey, he is determined to be known for his own style and contributions rather than just his lineage. “I want to be Joao, regardless of anything. I never tried to be my father, I never wanted to be my father,” he shared in an earlier interview with ESPN. Choosing to move away from Barcelona was, for him, a step toward independence: “People on the outside want you to be something you’re never going to be. It’s good to be here.”

Opinion: Mendes Shows Maturity Beyond His Years

Joao Mendes is handling the challenge of being Ronaldinho’s son with remarkable maturity. Instead of letting the weight of expectation hinder his progress, he uses it as motivation to carve out his own identity on the pitch. If he continues to blend hard work with a positive mindset, Mendes has every chance to make headlines on his own terms in English football.

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