May 13 (Reuters) - Actor Cristo Fernandez, best known for his role as footballer Dani Rojas on the hit Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso, has taken his talents from the small screen to the soccer pitch by signing a professional contract with USL Championship side El Paso Locomotive FC.
Fernandez, 35, played youth football in Mexico before stepping away from the sport at age 15 due to a knee injury. However, he never abandoned his dream of returning to professional soccer. Earlier this year, he trained with Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire's reserves, and after a two-month trial with El Paso that included a pre-season appearance, he officially signed with the club on Tuesday.
"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," Fernandez said on the club's website. "Maybe I'm just a crazy man with crazy dreams."
El Paso Locomotive FC, founded in 2018, currently sits fourth in Group B of the USL Championship standings. Head coach Junior Gonzalez expressed enthusiasm about the signing, stating, "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."
