The Heirs Apparent: Sons of Football Legends
Two names dominate modern football: Messi and Ronaldo. Naturally, all eyes are on their sons to see if the magic has been passed down.
Thiago Messi
As the son of Lionel Messi, an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, Thiago faces unimaginable expectations. Now 12 years old, he is showing early signs of a promising career. He has played for the youth academies wherever his father has played, including Barcelona's La Masia, PSG, and now Inter Miami. Wearing the famous number 10, Thiago's low center of gravity and ability to glide with the ball often draw comparisons to his legendary father. However, the path to greatness is long, and only time will tell if he can truly live up to the Messi name.
Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.
His father is a monument to work ethic and physical perfection. While Cristiano Ronaldo worries his son sometimes eats junk food, the potential is undeniable. At just 14, Ronaldo Jr. is already a physical presence at 185 cm tall. He has shined in the youth academies of Juventus, Manchester United, and Al Nassr. Furthermore, he recently scored twice for Portugal's U15 team. His father admits he is fast and has the talent, but emphasizes that dedication is key. With the ultimate role model for a father, the world may need to brace itself for another unstoppable Ronaldo.
Forging Different Paths
Not every son follows the same script. Some choose different positions, different leagues, or even different careers entirely.
Romeo Beckham
While his father David was known for relentless hard work, Romeo Beckham took a more relaxed approach. Born into celebrity life, the grit required for professional football proved elusive. After a brief stint in Arsenal's academy and a return to the sport with Inter Miami II and Brentford's B team, Romeo decided to hang up his boots at just 22. Consequently, he swapped the beautiful game for the game of beauty, signing with a top Paris fashion agency.
Daniel Maldini
Daniel carries the weight of a three-generation football dynasty. His grandfather, Cesare, and father, Paolo, are AC Milan and Italy legends. Unlike them, Daniel is an attacking midfielder, not a defender. After rising through Milan's academy, he struggled to secure a first-team spot. However, a successful season at Monza earned him a move to Atalanta. Now 20, he has represented the Italian national team and has the time and talent to become an established star, even if matching his family's trophy cabinet seems nearly impossible.
Overcoming Adversity and Expectations
Some players face unique challenges, from chaotic upbringings to finding their place in the shadow of a beloved icon.
- Kai Rooney: Wayne Rooney was a raw, fierce teenager from the streets. In contrast, his son Kai has had a more stable upbringing. Kai has the same strong build as his father and is making waves in Manchester United's academy, often playing above his age group. With his father's support, he is on track to become a top professional.
- Joao Mendes: Ronaldinho’s son had a different start, spending much of his childhood away from his superstar father. Despite this, Joao showed enough talent to earn a spot in Barcelona’s famed academy. He failed to make a strong impression there and was eventually released by Burnley's U21 team. Replicating his father’s unique magic was always going to be a monumental task.
- Robinho Jr.: With his father Robinho in prison, this young talent's future looked uncertain. In a remarkable twist, Neymar, who was mentored by Robinho as a teen, stepped in to guide the boy. Now at Santos, Robinho Jr. displays the same trickery as his father. He has already made his first-team debut and, with Neymar’s guidance, the sky is the limit.
A Legacy of Their Own
The journey for the sons of football legends is filled with unique pressures and privileges. Some, like Marcus Thuram, become top stars in their own right, while others, like Justin Kluivert, build solid professional careers without quite reaching their father's legendary status.
Ultimately, each of these young men is on his own journey. Whether they achieve global stardom, build a respectable career, or choose another path entirely, they all must grapple with a name that is both a blessing and a burden.
