Ronaldinho Guides Son João Mendes as He Carves His Own Football Path

**Ronaldinho’s son João Mendes has begun playing senior football for São Paulo’s under‑23 side, marking his first official appearance in a competitive match and signaling the start of his own professional journey.**

João Mendes, 19, grew up in the shadow of his legendary father, Ronaldinho Gaúcho, but has resisted the hype by focusing on grassroots development. He signed his first youth contract with São Paulo FC in 2022 and spent two seasons with the club’s academy, where coaches praised his vision and dribbling. On 12 May 2026 he debuted for the under‑23 squad in a 2‑1 win over Palmeiras B, completing 78 minutes and providing an assist for the winning goal.

Ronaldinho attends most of João’s training sessions, offering technical tips rather than press‑friendly sound bites. The elder Gaúcho told reporters after the match that he wants his son to “play his own game, not wear my jersey.” He also arranged a short‑term loan to a lower‑division side, Vila Nova, to give João regular minutes against seasoned professionals.

The media constantly compares João’s style to his father’s trademark flair. Scouts note that while João possesses quick feet, he must improve his defensive positioning to succeed at senior level. Fans on social platforms often debate whether his progress is merit‑based or a product of nepotism, adding pressure that the young forward says he “learns to block out.”

São Paulo’s head of youth development, Carlos Alberto, confirmed that João will train with the first‑team squad three times a week starting in August 2026. The plan includes a possible loan to a Série B club for the 2027 season, aiming to give him consistent game time. Meanwhile, Ronaldinho has hinted at a future partnership with a sports brand to launch a line of youth training kits bearing João’s name.

**João Mendes is carving a path that respects his heritage while forging his own identity on the pitch.**