Ronaldinho’s 14-year-old son Joao Mendes signs first professional contract with Brazilian club Cruzeiro

Ronaldinho’s 14-year-old son has been tipped to achieve Cruzeiro’s first workforce after signing his first skilled contract with the Brazilian membership.

Joao Mendes, whose dad is former Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldinho, performs as a centre ahead or simply off the striker.

And there seem like excessive hopes for the teen, with Cruzeiro’s director of grassroots soccer Amarildo Roberio claiming Mendes has ‘excessive technical high quality’, versatility, tempo and lethal ending.

Roberio advised the club’s website: “As we speak, we signed the contract of Joao Mendes, who’s a promising participant with fascinating traits and who, I consider, will quickly be integrating with our skilled workforce.

“He’s a tall participant with excessive technical high quality. A participant who can play each as a field participant and as a second striker. He’s a participant who, even along with his measurement, has pace and finishes very properly.”

Mendes has been with Cruzeiro for a year. but on signing his pro deal he said: “It was the team that opened the door for me. I have a great affection for the club.

“The training is very good, the structure is very good. It’s the biggest club in Brazil and it’s a pleasure to play here.

“It’s a very happy day. Thanks to the board for the confidence you have given to me. I also thank God for me being able to play every day.

“It is a dream that one day I can sign the professional contact with Cruzeiro, play professionally, score a goal in the crowded Mineirao and dedicate it to the fans.”

It’s understood Mendes didn’t say he was Ronaldinho’s son when he first joined the membership in a bid to impress on his personal deserves.

Ronaldinho had a glittering profession – profitable the World Cup with Brazil in 2002 and taking part in for large golf equipment together with Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and AC Milan.