Burnley Manager Scott Parker Tempering Expectations for Ronaldinho's Son Joao Mendes

Burnley manager Scott Parker has addressed the growing excitement surrounding the anticipated arrival of Joao Mendes, son of football legend Ronaldinho, urging fans to manage their expectations. Mendes, a 19-year-old winger, is set to join Burnley from Barcelona in a deal that is expected to be finalized soon.

The young Brazilian, who impressed during his time with Barcelona’s Under-19s, is poised to sign a two-year contract with the Championship club. While the buzz around Mendes is understandable given his father’s illustrious career, Parker has emphasized that the incoming player will primarily be viewed as a development prospect rather than an immediate first-team fixture.

“This is a player we see as a development player and a project in that sense,” Parker stated ahead of Burnley’s upcoming home match against Cardiff. “As of right now, the paperwork has not been signed, but there is definitely something in it for sure.”

Parker acknowledged the excitement surrounding Mendes’ move but cautioned against placing undue pressure on the teenager. “I get the excitement around it,” he said. “But I think it would be unfair to heap a huge amount of pressure on a young boy coming here. He knows why he is coming here in terms of development, so I wouldn’t want to heap more pressure than that which is already on him.”

Mendes, who joined Barcelona’s Under-19s in 2023 after coming through Cruzeiro’s academy, did not make an appearance for the senior team. His contract with the Spanish giants concluded in June 2024, paving the way for his move to Burnley.

As Burnley prepare to welcome Mendes, Parker is focused on ensuring that the young winger’s transition is handled with care, emphasizing that the club's expectations will be aligned with his role as a developmental talent. The arrival of Mendes is a sign of Burnley’s commitment to nurturing young players, with the hope that he will grow into a significant contributor in the future.

For now, Burnley fans should look forward to seeing how Mendes develops at Turf Moor, while also keeping in mind the realistic role he will play as he adapts to English football and works towards reaching his potential.