Ted Lasso Star Cristo Fernandez Goes Through Trial With Chicago Fire II and El Paso Locomotive

Cristo Fernandez, who played Dani Rojas in the beloved Apple TV series Ted Lasso, trained with MLS's Chicago Fire last month, the club confirmed Wednesday. GOAL reported the Mexican-born actor was on trial with USL Championship side El Paso Locomotive earlier this week, and could yet receive a contract. Fernandez played academy soccer in Mexico as a teenager. Fernandez, it would seem, has had a busy month. GOAL reported on Monday that the TV sensation has been training with El Paso Locomotive since Thursday, and played in a preseason friendly over the weekend. It has since come to light that Fernandez has been practicing his craft elsewhere. He played in a friendly for Chicago Fire II last month, and despite not making the team, found the back of the net in a match.Fernandez, who played Rojas of imaginary AFC Richmond, was on the verge of a professional soccer career as a teenager. He was a part of the Tecos FC academy, then a first division Mexican team, until he was 15 - but walked away from the game after suffering two significant knee injuries. He pursued acting instead, but remains an avid fan.Fernandez is not the only Ted Lasso star with significant experience in the game. Kola Bokinni, who portrayed Captain Isaac McAdoo, played at a semi-professional level before going into acting. Meanwhile, Phil Dunster, a fan favorite for his performance as misfit striker Jamie Tartt, has been hailed by multiple cast members for his footballing skills. Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingEven if things didn't work out with Chicago, Fernandez's chances at a pro contract remain alive. El Paso are yet to make a decision on his future, but could yet hand Fernandez a contract. Their season begins on Saturday with a home game against Colorado Springs Switchbacks.

Cristo Fernandez's Soccer Journey

Cristo Fernandez, famous for playing Dani Rojas on Apple TV's hit series Ted Lasso, displayed his passion for soccer by training with Chicago Fire II last month. Despite not securing a spot, Fernandez showcased his skills by scoring a goal in a friendly match. The Mexican-born actor's soccer background traces back to his teenage years when he was a part of the Tecos FC academy in Mexico. However, two knee injuries at the age of 15 led him to pursue acting instead.

Fernandez's Recent Trials and Prospects

Reports from GOAL.com indicated that Fernandez underwent a trial with USL Championship side El Paso Locomotive after his stint with Chicago Fire II. The actor's commitment to the sport has been evident as he played in preseason fixtures for both clubs. Despite not yet securing a contract, Fernandez's chances of landing a professional deal seem promising. El Paso Locomotive is still deliberating on his future, leaving the door open for a potential contract offer.

Ted Lasso Cast Members' Soccer Background

Cristo Fernandez is not the only Ted Lasso cast member with a background in soccer. Kola Bokinni, who portrayed Captain Isaac McAdoo, has experience playing at a semi-professional level. Additionally, Phil Dunster, known for his role as Jamie Tartt, has been praised for his footballing skills by fellow cast members. The show's stars' shared love for the beautiful game adds an extra layer of authenticity to their on-screen performances.

Future Prospects for Fernandez

While Cristo Fernandez's trial with Chicago Fire II didn't lead to a contract, his potential with El Paso Locomotive remains on the horizon. With the USL Championship season kicking off soon, Fernandez could still earn a spot on the roster. The upcoming match against Colorado Springs Switchbacks might provide the platform for the actor to showcase his soccer prowess and land a professional contract, fulfilling his dream of a career in the sport.