The footballing world could be set for cheekier tricks after Ronaldinho’s 14-year-old son Joao Mendes signed a five-year contract with Brazilian outfit Cruzeiro.
The youngster penned his first professional deal after he rose up the youth ranks at their academy.
He joined Cruzeiro in 2018 after he impressed during his trials. Reports claim that the young Brazilian had to hide his identity during the trials to avoid his father’s status influencing the club’s decision.
Cruzeiro broke the news early last week through club director of football Amarildo Ribeiro who hailed the youngster as a promising player.
'Today, we signed the contract of Joao Mendes, who is a promising player with interesting characteristics and who, I believe, will soon be integrating our professional team, He is a player that has good physical size, a high technical quality. A player who can play both as an area player and as a second striker. He is a player who, even with the big size, has speed and finishes very well.' Said Ribeiro.
Mendes, who is former Barcelona and Brazil international Ronaldinho’s only son, admitted his delight on penning the deal.
'It's a happy day for me. I'm thankful for the trust that Cruzeiro board gave me. It's the biggest club in Brazil and I want to score a goal in the 'Mineirao' (Mineiro Championship) for the supporters, it’s a pleasure to play here, this team opened me the (football) doors. I have a special affection for this club, the trains are great and the structure is really good. My dream is to be a professional footballer for Cruzeiro.' Said the youngster.
His father enjoyed fruitful spells with Brazil and Barcelona where he won the World cup and Champions League respectively.
The legendary footballer also won the highly coveted Ballon d’Or twice in 2004 and 2005 and retired four years ago after playing for several clubs.
