Burnley manager Scott Parker acknowledges the excitement surrounding the anticipated signing of Joao Mendes, the son of football legend Ronaldinho, but emphasizes that the winger will primarily be viewed as a “development prospect” rather than an immediate first-team player.
The Championship club is reportedly finalizing a deal that will see the former Barcelona youth player transition from the Nou Camp to Turf Moor on what is expected to be a two-year contract. While Parker understands the buzz surrounding the 19-year-old, given his father’s illustrious career, he urges caution regarding expectations.
“This is a player we see as a development project,” Parker stated ahead of Burnley’s home match against Cardiff this weekend. “The paperwork has not yet been signed, but there is something in the works.”
He added, “I understand the excitement, but it would be unfair to place excessive pressure on a young player coming here. He knows he’s here for development, and I wouldn’t want to add more pressure than he already faces.”
Mendes came through the academy at Cruzeiro in Brazil before joining Barcelona’s Under-19 team in 2023 after a successful trial. He did not make any appearances for Barcelona’s senior squad, and his contract with the La Liga club ended in June 2024.
Parker highlighted the importance of managing Mendes’s transition, stating that while there is potential, the focus should remain on his growth as a player.
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