Cristo Fernández, best known for playing footballer Dani Rojas in the Apple TV series Ted Lasso, has signed a professional contract with USL Championship side El Paso Locomotive. The 35-year-old actor, who played youth football in Mexico before quitting at 15 due to a knee injury, has been training with Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire's reserves this year.
Fernández underwent a two-month trial with El Paso, including a pre-season appearance, before securing the deal. 'Football 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,' he said on the club's website. 'Maybe I'm just a crazy man with crazy dreams.'
El Paso, founded in 2018, currently sit fourth in Group B of the USL Championship standings. Head coach Junior Gonzalez welcomed Fernández, saying: '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.'
