'Ted Lasso' actor signs with El Paso Locomotive after long tryout

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.

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Cristo Fernández has signed with the 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.

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"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."

The Locomotive's next match is May 27 at Southwest University Park against AV Alta FC. El Paso is currently fourth in the USL's Western Conference with a record of 4-2-3 (14 points).

Bret Bloomquist can be reached, bbloomquist@elpasotimes.com; @Bretbloomquist on X.