Cristo Fernandez, who portrays Dani Rojas in Ted Lasso, will work as a forward for USL Championship club El Paso Locomotive FC. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Actor Cristo Fernandez, who portrayed Dani Rojas on Ted Lasso signed with El Paso Locomotive FC, the USL Championship franchise announced Tuesday.
Teams of the contract were not disclosed. Fernandez, 35, participated in a two-month trial with the Locos and appeared in a preseason match against New Mexico United.
“This journey back to professional futbol soccer is about believing in yourself, taking risks, and continuing to chase your dreams no matter how unexpected the path may be,” Fernandez said in a news release.
“Because as we say in Mexico: hay que seguirle echando ganas (let’s keep giving it our all). … Maybe I’m just a crazy man with crazy dreams… so being here with the ‘Locos’ actually makes perfect sense. ¡Vamos Locos!”
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Fernandez started his soccer career at the youth level with Tecos FC, but was forced to step away from the game due to a knee injury.
“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.”
The Locos (4-3-2) will take on AV Alta FC on March 27 in El Paso, Texas. They went 10-9-11 last season.
“Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat to our forward line,” Locos coach Junior Gonzalez said. “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.”
