João Mendes hid father Ronaldinho's identity during football trials

João Mendes, the 21-year-old son of football legend Ronaldinho Gaúcho, sought to establish his own professional identity by concealing his father's name during early career trials. At age 14, Mendes underwent testing with the Brazilian club Atlético-MG without revealing his lineage. Club officials noted that he passed the evaluation based on his own merit and talent before his paternity was disclosed.

After signing a six-year contract with Atlético-MG, Mendes was released in early 2022 during a restructuring of the club's youth categories. His career subsequently led him to Europe, where he spent time in the youth ranks of FC Barcelona, supported by then-president Joan Laporta. Following his tenure in Spain, he played for English clubs Burnley and Hull City. He is currently playing for Portimonense in the Portuguese second division.