'Drama Becomes Reality': 'Ted Lasso' Striker Cristo Fernandez Signs with US Second-Tier Pro Soccer Team

Set Aside His Dream of Becoming a Player After Childhood Injury
Joined the Team After a Two-Month Trial
Appeared in Preseason Matches

An actor who played a striker in a drama has achieved his dream of becoming an actual professional soccer player. On May 13, Yonhap News reported that El Paso Locomotive FC, a club in the USL Championship—the second tier of professional soccer in the United States—announced through its official website that it had signed a contract with actor Cristo Fernandez. The contract is subject to approval by the league and the U.S. Soccer Federation, and the detailed terms were not disclosed in accordance with club policy.

Cristo Fernandez is an actor who gained recognition for his role as Mexican forward Dani Rojas in the American sports comedy-drama "Ted Lasso." Just as he played a striker in the series, he will now wear a professional team’s jersey as a striker in real life. According to the El Paso club, Fernandez underwent an intensive trial period of about two months. During this time, he regularly participated in team training sessions and even played in a preseason match against New Mexico United. The club stated that its decision to sign him was based on a comprehensive evaluation of his performance, attitude, and ability to adapt to the team.

Fernandez, who is from Mexico, nurtured his dream of becoming a soccer player as a child with Tecos FC’s youth team. However, he had to quit soccer at age 15 due to an injury. He later pursued a career in acting and gained worldwide recognition for playing a soccer player in "Ted Lasso." Now, after all these years, he has laced up his boots again and come closer to fulfilling his childhood dream.

Junior Gonzalez, the head coach of El Paso, expressed his expectations for Fernandez’s addition, saying, "Bringing Cristo into our squad will add strength to our attack," and added, "His passion for football and leadership will help our team continue to foster a positive culture." Fernandez also shared his excitement through the club. He said, "Football has always been a huge part of my life and identity. No matter where life has taken me, the dream to play at a professional level never left my heart." He continued, "I am grateful to the El Paso club, the coaching staff, the staff, and especially my teammates for giving me the opportunity to compete. This journey back to professional football is about believing in yourself, taking risks, and continuing to pursue your dreams even if the path is unexpected."

He concluded, "Maybe I’m just a crazy person with an outrageous dream. That’s why it feels like a perfect fit to be part of the El Paso club." Like his character who shouted "Football is life" in the drama, Fernandez is now set to stand on the actual pitch. His challenge will remain a special story for both sports and drama fans alike.