Mexico’s all-time record goal scorer, Javier Hernández, also known as Chicharito, has agreed to join Atlético Dallas.
The 38-year-old will join the club for its inaugural season in 2027, having put pen to paper on a two-year deal, with the option for a third. He’ll spearhead the side set to be coached by former Atlético Madrid midfielder Peter Luccin.
An expansion side founded in 2024, Dallas will join the USL Championship - a second-tier to the MLS - next year. They are set to call the historic 92,000-seater Cotton Bowl home.
“I've been fortunate to live the dreams that every young footballer hopes to experience,” Hernández said in a statement. “I've worn some of the biggest shirts in the world and played in incredible stadiums in front of passionate supporters. Opportunities like this, though, are different.”
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward went on to add, “I believe Dallas deserves a club that reflects its passion for football, its diversity, and its future. I want to help create a winning culture, inspire young players across North Texas, and give our supporters a team they can believe in from the very beginning. I didn't come here simply to finish my career. I came here to help build the future of football in Dallas.”
Luccin, meanwhile, explained why he believes Hernández was an ideal signing for the young franchise, stating, “Players earn respect through the standards they set every day.
“Javier has competed against the very best players in the world and understands exactly what excellence requires. His experience, professionalism, and competitive mentality will elevate everyone around him. That's the kind of foundation every successful club needs.”
USL Championship President, Jeremy Alumbaugh, also weighed in on this landmark signing for the league, saying, “The league is excited to welcome a player of Javier's talent, experience and international acclaim to the USL Championship.
To listen to the latest episode of 'All Out Soccer' - CLICK HERE
“This signing sends a clear message that Atlético Dallas is committed to building a championship-caliber team on the pitch and delivering an exceptional experience for its supporters and local fans.
“Javier's decision to join Atlético Dallas reflects the club's bold vision for professional soccer in North Texas and reinforces the momentum behind the league's long-term vision for the future of the game in the United States.”
The diminutive striker’s professional career began in Mexico at Chivas de Guadalajara, before he moved to Manchester in 2010, spending the next four seasons there, before heading to Los Blancos on loan for a year.
Stints with Bayer Leverkusen, West Ham United, Sevilla, and the LA Galaxy followed before he returned to Guadalajara in 2024. A free agent since his contract ended in December 2025, Hernández recently worked as an analyst for FOX Sports throughout the FIFA World Cup.
Throughout his storied career, Hernández has won two Premier Leagues, a UEFA Europa League, a Primera División de México Apertura, a CONCACAF Gold Cup and CONCACAF Cup among other titles.
Source: Alloutsoccer.com
