'Ted Lasso' actor signs with El Paso Locomotive after long tryout
Cristo Fernández, who portrays fictional soccer player Dani Rojas on the show 'Ted Lasso' has signed with the El Paso Locomotive.
Depending on the point of view, the El Paso Locomotives are drawing on either the English Premier League or Hollywood with their latest signing of forward Cristo Fernández. The club announced the signing Tuesday, May 12, after Fernández spent the last two months training with the team on a tryout. Fernández is an actor known for his portrayal of Dani Rojas in the television show "Ted Lasso," where he played an attacker for AFC Richmond.
Per USL policy, terms of the deal with the Locomotive have not been announced. More: Art imitates life? 'Ted Lasso' actor tries out for El Paso Locomotive This will mark the 35-year-old's professional debut and his first soccer action since suffering an injury at 15 in the Tecos FC system.
Like the character he played, he is an attacker. "Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat," Locomotive head coach Junior Gonzalez said. More: El Paso Locomotive open 2026 season with a tie to fire up fan base "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.
" Fernández, a native of Guadalajara, is excited for the opportunity. "Fútbol 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," Fernández said. "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.