Burnley has officially signed Joao Mendes, the 19-year-old son of Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho, adding him to their under-21 squad.
Mendes, who has football in his blood, previously honed his skills at Barcelona's renowned La Masia academy and earlier at Cruzeiro in Brazil. His talent caught the eye of Barcelona, leading to a stint with their Under-19 team in 2023 following a successful trial.
The move to Burnley marks a significant step in Mendes’ career, as he transitions to English football. Burnley's head coach, Scott Parker, sees Mendes as a key "development player" for the future.
Parker's recent comments hinted at a strategic investment in young talent, with Mendes' signing aligning with the club's long-term vision.
Joao Mendes expressed his excitement about joining Burnley, noting the strong football culture and passionate fanbase. Despite the weather being a stark contrast to the Brazilian climate he’s accustomed to, Mendes feels a strong connection with the town and its football-loving community.
“I feel blessed to be here and I’m excited to take on this opportunity,” Mendes said on Burnley's official website.
There is a possibility that Mendes could feature for Burnley's under-21 side in an upcoming match against Charlton Athletic at the club’s training centre this Sunday.
While Burnley have not disclosed the specifics of his contract, Mendes' arrival is seen as a promising addition to the squad, with fans eager to see how the young talent develops in the footsteps of his father, who achieved footballing greatness with a World Cup, a Champions League title, and the Ballon d'Or.
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