Ronaldinho's son hid his true identity during trial, nobody knew who his dad was
As per Globo Esporte,Joao Mendes de Assis Moreira is said to have 'charmed the scouts' but they had no idea that his legendary old man is arguably football's best ever entertainer.
Nobody knew his family lineage as Mendes didn't want it to have a bearing on the final decision.
But he clearly made a huge impression as Cruzeiro brought him into the youth system after his mother Janaina Natielle Mendes gave her seal of approval.
Mendes had also spent time in the academy of Ronaldinho's former club Flamengo and played indoor football for Vasco de Gama.
He signed a six-year professional deal with Cruzeiro and scored two goals during a youth tournament over in China.
Mendes left after four seasons and was without a club for nearly a year before he bagged a trial with Barcelona, the club his father is best associated with.
It didn't go too smoothly at first, with the 17-year-old initially struggling during his period playing with the Blaugrana's Under 19 side.
President Joan Laporta, who has a great relationship with Ronaldinho, reportedly asked the club's coaching staff to extend his trial to further inspect the player.
However, Mendes started adjusting and showed what he's all about, resulting in Barcelona offering him a contract.
Roberto de Assis, his uncle and agent, was in contact with Laporta throughout and facilitated the transfer.