Ted Lasso star Cristo Fernández has signed for El Paso Locomotive FC after a trial period, marking a return to professional football

Actor Cristo Fernández, best known for his role as Dani Rojas in the hit series Ted Lasso, has signed for US second-tier club El Paso Locomotive FC after completing a successful trial period.

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The 35-year-old Mexican joins the USL Championship side following an unusual return to professional football more than a decade after stepping away from the sport due to injury.

Fernández began his football journey in Guadalajara, Mexico, but was forced to quit at the age of 15 after suffering a knee injury.

He later relocated to London, where he pursued acting and eventually gained international recognition through his role in the Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso, which ran from 2020 to 2023.

Despite his acting success, Fernández has continued to maintain a strong connection to football and recently worked his way back into the professional game through trial opportunities.

Earlier this year, he also featured in a trial spell with the reserve team of Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire FC as part of his efforts to re-enter competitive football.

Speaking after completing his move, Fernández said the game has always remained central to his identity.

“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, as reported by BBC Sport.

He added that his return to the pitch reflects passion and determination to pursue long-held dreams despite an unconventional career path.

“Maybe I’m just a crazy man with crazy dreams… so being here with the ‘Locos’ actually makes perfect sense,” he added.

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El Paso Locomotive head coach Junior Gonzalez welcomed the signing, describing Fernández as a valuable attacking option for the squad as they strengthen their forward line ahead of upcoming fixtures.