Ted Lasso Star Says He’s Grateful After Signing with U.S. Pro Soccer Team

Cristo Fernández, the actor best known for playing Dani Rojas in the hit series Ted Lasso, has signed a professional contract with El Paso Locomotive FC, a U.S. soccer club competing in the USL Championship. Fernández, who spoke about the move in a BBC interview, said he feels “grateful to compete” as he returns to the professional game after years focused on acting.

Fernández described the transition from television soccer star to real-life player as a natural one, saying he and his character are “the same guy,” apart from Dani Rojas being “super caffeinated.” He also revealed that the character’s famous “football is life” line originated from his first audition self-tape, when actors were asked to talk about their soccer background. The phrase became one of the most recognizable parts of Ted Lasso and helped make Dani Rojas a fan favorite.

Before becoming an actor, Fernández played youth soccer in his native Mexico until a knee injury at age 15 ended that path. According to El Paso Locomotive’s signing announcement, that setback pushed him toward acting, but his dream of competing professionally never fully disappeared. Fernández had already been involved in soccer again in recent months, appearing in a preseason match against New Mexico United and training with the reserves of MLS side Chicago Fire earlier this year.

El Paso Locomotive head coach Junior Gonzalez welcomed the signing, calling Fernández a valuable addition to the team’s attack. Gonzalez said Fernández brings both an attacking threat and leadership qualities that fit the club’s culture. Fernández joins a team founded in 2018 that plays in the second tier of U.S. men’s soccer and is currently positioned fifth in its group.

In comments about the signing, Fernández said football has always been central to his identity and that the chance to return to the professional level is deeply meaningful. He thanked the club, coaches, staff and teammates for giving him the opportunity to compete from day one. He said the journey back to professional fútbol is about self-belief, taking risks and continuing to pursue dreams, even when the path looks unexpected.

Fernández also referenced his Mexican roots in celebrating the move, saying the experience reflected a spirit of determination and gratitude. The actor’s signing has drawn attention because it connects one of the most beloved fictional soccer characters on television with a real professional roster. For fans of Ted Lasso, the move blurs the line between art and sport, as Fernández steps from a scripted role into an actual competitive environment.

The signing marks a notable chapter in Fernández’s career and in the broader story of Ted Lasso, a series that built its appeal in part through its heartfelt portrayal of soccer culture, optimism and team spirit. For Fernández, the opportunity represents more than a publicity moment: it is a long-delayed return to the game he says never left his heart.