In His Father's Footsteps: Ronaldinho's Son Joins Barcelona Academy

FC Barcelona made an important connection with their past when they confirmed the signing of forward Joao Mendes -- the son of legendary Brazilian forward Ronaldinho.

The 18-year-old is expected to initially form a part of Barcelona's B team, which plays in Spanish football's third tier, the club informed on Thursday.

Mendes, who had been without a club since leaving Brazil's Cruzeiro in February last year, impressed Barcelona coaches during a trial earlier this year, reports Xinhua.

The youngster has already made his debut with Barca's under-19 side in a friendly against Manchester United. He is a player who can play as a central striker or in a deeper role.

He is right-footed but good with his left, and Barca hope he will be able to follow in his father's footsteps.

Ronaldinho spent five seasons with Barcelona between 2003-2008 and played a huge part in lifting the club to dominance between 2004-2006 when Barca won back-to-back La Liga titles and the Champions League trophy.

He is right-footed but good with his left, and Barca hope he will be able to follow in his father's footsteps.