Javier “Chicharito” Hernández, Mexico’s all-time leading goal scorer, is set to join USL Championship expansion team Atlético Dallas.
The 38-year-old forward will make his return to the field after last playing for his childhood team, Chivas, in November 2025.
On social media, Hernández shared, “Hey Dallas, I’m here! Very excited to make history with you. See you soon, guys.”
The Mexican striker, who has competed in three World Cups, is the first signing for Atlético Dallas as they prepare for their debut in the USL’s second division in 2027. The club previously announced that Peter Luccin, a former player in LaLiga and Ligue 1, will be the team’s first manager.
The USL Championship operates as the second tier of soccer in the USA, just below MLS, and is looking to launch a first-division league called USL Premier in 2028.
Dallas will be the ninth club for the Mexican star, who has established his career internationally with notable teams such as Manchester United and Real Madrid. This decision also dispels any rumors regarding Hernández’s potential retirement.
After joining MLS’s LA Galaxy in 2020, Hernández referred to it as the “beginning of retirement.” Although he has not officially retired from international play, his last appearance for Mexico was in 2019.
“I believe Dallas deserves a club that reflects its passion for soccer, diversity, and future,” Hernández remarked in a statement. “I aim to help cultivate a winning culture, inspire young athletes across North Texas, and provide our supporters with a team they can believe in from the start. I didn’t come here to simply end my career; I came to help build the future of soccer in Dallas.”
Hernández served as an analyst for Fox during the 2026 World Cup in North America, where Mexico was eliminated in the round of 16 by England.
He now aims to revive his goal-scoring prowess in the USL Championship, having netted only three goals in all competitions for Chivas in 2025. During that period, he also garnered attention for making “sexist” remarks, leading to a fine from the Mexican Football Federation.
Sporting director Brian Corcoran stated, “Javier brings world-class talent on the field and also embodies professionalism, accountability, and a strong commitment to winning. These attributes are infectious within a locker room and align perfectly with what we want our club to symbolize from day one. His readiness to mentor, combined with his on-field capabilities, makes this an ideal inaugural signing for our team.”
This report includes information from The Associated Press.