Ronaldinho’s son signs first professional contract with Championship club

Forward João Mendes, the son of former Barcelona and AC Milan star Ronaldinho, has signed his first professional contract. 

The 19-year-old winger has inked a deal with Burnley, who are competing in the Championship. The agreement runs until the summer of 2026. 

Since March 2023, João Mendes had been training at Barcelona's academy. 

Ronaldinho played for Barcelona from 2003 to 2008, during which time he won the UEFA Champions League, two La Liga titles, and two Copa del Rey trophies. In 2005, Ronaldinho was awarded the Ballon d'Or. After leaving Barcelona, the Brazilian went on to play for AC Milan, Flamengo, Atlético Mineiro, Fluminense, and Mexican side Querétaro, before retiring from professional football in 2018.