Barcelona and Brazil legend Ronaldinho set to become grandfather as his son Joao Mendes’ girlfriend announces pregnancy
Barcelona and Brazil legend Ronaldinho is set to become a grandfather as his son Joao Mendes is expecting his first child with his girlfriend. Mendes' influencer girlfriend, Giovanna Buscacio, took to Instagram to share the news this week.
Ronaldinho has often been regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. The Brazil legend is best remembered for his time at Barcelona (2003-2008), AC Milan (2008-2011), and the historic 2002 World Cup win with the Selecao. He also won the 2005 Ballon d'Or. The legendary attacker retired from professional football in 2018.
Joao Mendes is the former Blaugrana legend's only son, who previously played for the Barcelona youth team. The 19-year-old currently plays for the Premier League side Burnley.
On December 2, 2024, Mendes' girlfriend, influencer Giovanna Buscacio, took to Instagram to announce her pregnancy. She shared several images of her baby bump, writing:
"16 weeks and counting."
In response to his partner's pregnancy announcement, Joao Mendes responded in the comments, writing:
"I love you a lot, my darling.”
Mendes is Dinho's only son, whom he shares with professional dancer, Janaina Mendes. The 19-year-old currently resides with Buscacio in Manchester where he plays as a right winger for Burnley's under-21 team. The impending birth of Mendes' child will mark Dinho becoming a grandfather for the first time at 45 years of age.
How did Brazil legend Ronaldinho perform at Barcelona?
Former Selecao superstar Ronaldinho joined Barcelona from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the summer of 2003 at the age of 23. He is often considered to have reached his prime during his days at the club, recording 95 goals in 210 outings across competitions.
During his five years at Barca, the former Selecao star won one UEFA Champions League title, two LaLiga titles, and two Supercopas de Espana. Dinho's arrival at Barca marked a new era for the club, as the legendary attacker led the Azulgrana to their first LaLiga title in six years in the 2004-05 season.
Ronaldinho was best remembered for embodying the typical joga bonito style of flamboyant football. He could tear up defenses with his impeccable ball control and his ability to wrong foot defending line-ups with his assortment of skills. Furthermore, the Brazilian was known for his lethal finishing and his mastery over deadball situations.
One of his most iconic moments at Barcelona came in May 2005 when he assisted a young Lionel Messi's first official goal for La Blaugrana. The goal came against Albacete at Camp Nou in a 2-0 win in a LaLiga match.