A Unexpected Comeback
Cristo Fernandez, best known for his infectious portrayal of Dani Rojas in the Apple TV+ series ‘Ted Lasso,’ has swapped the show’s locker‑room pep talks for a real grass field in El Paso.
The 28‑year‑old made his official debut for El Paso Locomotive FC in the USL Championship this weekend, marking a full‑circle moment that traces back to his teenage years playing in Guadalajara, Mexico, before a knee injury forced him off the pitch.
Fernandez says the decision to return was sparked not only by a lifelong love of the sport but also by the encouragement he received from his castmates, especially after meeting legends like Ronaldinho and Ronaldo, and by the memory of his late father, who was his biggest inspiration.
On the field, his new teammates treat him like any other player, sharing the same camaraderie and positive energy that defined the ‘Ted Lasso’ set, while the club’s supportive environment lets him focus on the game rather than the spotlight.
Beyond the physical comeback, Fernandez credits the series with teaching him about mental health, belief in oneself, and the importance of community — lessons he now brings to his training sessions and match preparations.
As for how he will celebrate his first goal, he remains undecided, though a nod to his on‑screen persona is a possibility that fans will have to wait and see.