El Paso Locomotive have announced the signing of Cristo Fernandez, known to fans as Dani Rojas in the popular show Ted Lasso.
Fernandez previously trialled with the club and featured in a pre-season friendly against New Mexico United. Injuries had previously cut short his promising football career at the age of 15, after a period with Tecos FC.
From Screen to the Field
Rumours of a potential professional football career for Fernandez have circulated for some time. The 35-year-old forward trialled with Chicago Fire 2 and El Paso earlier this year. Now, he will get his opportunity in the USL, although the terms of his contract have not been disclosed.
El Paso Head Coach Junior Gonzalez said, “Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat to our forward line. His passion for the game and leadership qualities for our locker room allow us to continue growing the positive culture we strive for as a club.”
A Dream Rekindled
It appeared that Fernandez was on track for a professional career, playing in Tecos FC’s youth system before injuries intervened. He was encouraged to pursue acting and appeared to have left football behind for good, despite playing a footballer on screen.
In a statement, Fernandez conveyed his enthusiasm about returning to the game: “Futbol has always been a huge part of my life and identity, and no matter where life has taken me, the dream of competing professionally never truly left my heart.
“I’m incredibly grateful to El Paso Locomotive FC – the club, coaches, staff, and especially my teammates – for opening the doors and giving me the opportunity to compete from day one. This journey back to professional fútbol soccer is about believing in yourself, taking risks, and continuing to chase your dreams no matter how unexpected the path may be. Because as we say in Mexico: hay que seguirle echando ganas (let’s keep giving it our all). Siempre agradecido con Dios, mi familia y amistades por creer en mí. Maybe I’m just a crazy man with crazy dreams… so being here with the “Locos” actually makes perfect sense.”
Ted Lasso’s Footballing Connections
Fernandez is not the only member of the Ted Lasso cast with a background in football. Kola Bokinni, who played Captain Isaac McAdoo, played at a semi-professional level. Phil Dunster, known for his role as Jamie Tartt, has been praised by cast members for his footballing ability.
El Paso’s Season So Far
Fernandez joins El Paso at an important time. The USL club currently sits fourth in the Western Conference and is the league’s top-scoring team. Last year, they finished fourth in the conference but were eliminated in the quarter-finals. Fernandez may provide an additional attacking option.
El Paso Locomotive will be hoping that Fernandez can add further firepower to their attack.