Chicharito signs with new USL franchise Athletico Dallas

Mexican football icon Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez has signed a two-year contract with Athletico Dallas, the newest franchise set to enter the United Soccer League (USL) next season. The agreement includes a club option for a third year, marking a significant acquisition for the expansion team as it prepares for its inaugural campaign.

Hernandez, 38, arrives in Texas with a distinguished record as the Mexico national team’s all-time leading scorer. His career spans a decade in top European leagues and a recent stint with Guadalajara Chivas in 2025. During the most recent World Cup, the veteran forward transitioned to a media role, serving as a television commentator before returning to the pitch.

The signing represents a strategic move for Athletico Dallas, which is expected to compete in a conference alongside the El Paso Locomotive. The El Paso Times reported that the Locomotive is set to open its 2026 season with a match designed to energise its fan base, suggesting a regional rivalry or alignment that Hernandez will join at the outset of the league’s new chapter.

Hernandez emphasised a commitment to long-term structural growth over a mere retirement tour. In a statement reported by Yahoo Sports, he stated his intention to help build the future of football in Dallas, aiming to create a winning culture and inspire young players across North Texas. He described the move as an opportunity to establish a team that reflects the city’s diversity and passion for the sport from its inception.

The 2026 USL season will mark the beginning of operations for Athletico Dallas, with Hernandez positioned as a foundational figure for the club. His transition from global stardom to a developmental role in the USL highlights a shift in his career trajectory, focusing on institutional legacy rather than individual performance metrics.

The report, originally published by the El Paso Times and syndicated via Yahoo Sports, confirms Hernandez’s immediate availability for the upcoming season. His presence is expected to provide immediate credibility to the new franchise as it seeks to establish its identity within the competitive landscape of American soccer.

As Athletico Dallas prepares for its debut, the focus remains on integrating Hernandez’s experience into the club’s operational framework. The two-year contract provides a stable foundation for the team to develop its roster and fan base, leveraging Hernandez’s status to attract support in a market with established football traditions.