Cristo Fernández, known for his role in “Ted Lasso,” is eager to dispel any notion that his move to soccer isn’t genuine. “In the end, talk is cheap. What really matters is my performance on the pitch and what I bring to the game,” he explained to ESPN after signing with the USL Championship‘s El Paso Locomotive. He acknowledges that fame from his acting career contributes to his presence in this new venture, but insists this is a real and serious pursuit for him.
To his fans, who number nearly half a million on Instagram, Fernández might be best recognized as Dani Rojas, the energetic soccer player from the hit series “Ted Lasso.” The announcement of his signing with El Paso raised eyebrows, as it seemed to blur the lines between fiction and reality.
While some may perceive his transition as a marketing move aimed at leveraging the show’s popularity, for Fernández, it represents the fulfillment of a lifelong dream that dates back far before his TV debut. “It’s a dream come true; it’s hard to express adequately,” he shared, reflecting on his journey to this moment.
Discovering His Passion for Soccer
Soccer has always been intertwined with Fernández’s identity. During our conversation, he echoed the sentiments often expressed by many Mexican players who grow up with an unwavering passion for the game. Raised in Guadalajara, he recalled that soccer was his sole focus as a child.
Locally, he supported Liga MX powerhouse Chivas and reminisced about his idols, including Adolfo “Bofo” Bautista and Ronaldinho. From an early age, his ambition was set: he was determined to forge his own path in soccer.
“I certainly gave my parents quite the shock when I told them I wanted to pursue this,” he chuckled.
Balancing morning training sessions with school at night, he joined various youth teams, including a stint with Liga MX’s Tecos. Everything seemed to point toward a bright future in soccer.
However, a devastating knee injury at 19 derailed his dreams, followed by additional injuries later on. After a season in Puerto Rico, it became evident that his dream of being a professional player was slipping away.
“It felt like everything was collapsing… I couldn’t understand why this was happening when I was so disciplined and focused,” Fernández recalled, admitting that he struggled with depression during this challenging period.
Finding New Directions
Deciding to step back from soccer, Fernández pursued a communications degree, allowing him to discover a new passion for acting while at university.
“I gave my parents another surprise when I mentioned I wanted to be an actor,” he laughed.
After relocating to England, he graduated from the Guildford School of Acting in 2018, landing a role in the Emmy award-winning “Ted Lasso” by 2020. As he stepped back onto the field as a part of the show, he rekindled his early love for soccer.
“Who would have thought that my greatest opportunity in this new world would come because of soccer?” he mused. “I believe everything happens for a reason, both good and bad.”
With “Ted Lasso” propelling his career, he pursued additional acting roles while also launching his production company, Espectro MX Films, alongside his sister. Yet, the call of soccer grew louder.
Connecting with former Mexico national team captain Andrés Guardado, Fernández confided his desire to play again. With Guardado’s support, he began rigorous training with a performance coach and physical therapist in Mexico.
Again surprising his family, he shared his renewed goal of pursuing a professional playing career.
“I kept it secret until I felt ready to tell my family and my dad,” he shared, honoring his father who passed away last December. “He would say, ‘Cristobal, you’re a bit crazy, but I believe in you. If this is what you want, go for it.’”
With connections from his management, he was able to attend a trial with the reserve team of MLS‘ Chicago Fire, which facilitated his signing with El Paso after a two-month trial.
Cristo Fernández: The Player
Fernández recognizes the scrutiny he will face as expectations surround his new career transition.
“I’m aware of the pressure, but I’ve always faced pressure in everything I do,” he said, confident in his work ethic. “I’ve never claimed to be the best, but I strive to give my all.”
Like his character Rojas, he embraces the spotlight that comes with being a forward, a crucial position on the team.
To handle the pressure, he plans to channel the lively spirit and flair of Mexican football icon Luis “Matador” Hernández, a player he admires and sees parallels with.
As for when he will take the field, he hopes that league and visa paperwork will be finalized soon. Once he makes his debut, he’ll navigate a demanding second-division season extending into late October.
If El Paso qualifies for the playoffs, that could extend his season into November, requiring considerable travel. Yet, he is fully committed to the 2026 season and excited for the challenge ahead.
“Acting will take a backseat,” he stated decisively.
However, he still has personal projects with his sister that he plans to manage alongside his new football career. As for the future beyond 2026, he remains open to possibilities. At 35, he carries the experience of a veteran, while still keeping his options available both within and outside soccer.
“Who knows what’s next,” Fernández said. “Right now, I’m focused on playing football, training daily, helping El Paso Locomotive have a successful season, and seeing where it all leads.”
As he embraces the unpredictable journey ahead, he reflects, “Football has given me both the highs and the lows. That’s why it truly is life to me.”