Actor Cristo Fernandez was known for his catchphrase "fútbol is life!" on the show "Ted Lasso." Robin L Marshall / WireImage
Cristo Fernández, an actor best known for his portrayal of Dani Rojas in the hit Apple TV series, “Ted Lasso,” has signed a contract to play professional soccer in real life.
The 35-year-old Mexican forward and actor signed with El Paso Locomotive FC in the USL Championship, the club announced Tuesday. The terms of the deal, including its length, were not disclosed. The deal is also pending league and federation approval, the club said.
“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 in a club statement. “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 signing comes after Fernández underwent an “extensive” two-month trial with the Texas-based club. The trial included training and even a preseason debut against New Mexico United. A former player whose career was derailed by injuries, Fernández has been documenting his journey back to professional soccer on social media, training with various professional teams around the country, including with MLS-affiliated clubs in lower divisions. USL Championship plays in the second-division of professional men’s soccer in the United States.
