Full Breakdown
Javier “Chicharito” Hernández Signs with USL Expansion Club Atlético Dallas
7/28/2026, 4:00:39 AM
Chicharito Joins Atlético Dallas in the USL Championship
Mexico’s all-time leading scorer, Javier “Chicharito” Hernández, has agreed to a two-year contract – with an option for a third year – with the USL Championship expansion side Atlético Dallas. The club announced the deal on Monday, making Hernández its first player signing ahead of the team’s inaugural season in 2027, the league’s second tier below Major League Soccer.
Background: A Veteran’s Return to U.S. Soccer
The 38-year-old striker last appeared competitively for Chivas in November 2025, after a season that yielded three goals across all competitions. Hernández’s career includes spells with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, West Ham United, Sevilla, and the Los Angeles Galaxy (2020-23). He previously served as a Fox analyst for the 2026 World Cup and earned his final Mexico national-team call-up in 2019.
Contract Details and Team Plans
The agreement runs for two years, with a club option for a third season, and remains subject to approval by the USL and the Mexican Football Federation. Atlético Dallas will host matches at the Cotton Bowl while competing in the USL Championship, a league preparing to launch a first-division competition (USL Premier) in 2028. Former La Liga and Ligue 1 midfielder Peter Luccin was appointed the club’s first head coach in February.
Official Statements & Player Vision
Hernández emphasized that his move is not a retirement stop-over. “I didn’t come here simply to finish my career,” — Hernandez He added, “I’ve been fortunate to live the dreams that every young footballer hopes to experience.” “I’ve been fortunate to live the dreams that every young footballer hopes to experience,” — Hernandez In a club statement, he said he wants to inspire local youth, and create a winning culture from the team’s inception.
Data & Statistics
- 52 goals in 109 appearances for the Mexico national team (all-time leading scorer).
- Eight senior clubs prior to Atlético Dallas, making this his ninth professional stop.
- Three goals in his final season with Chivas (2025).
The signing gives Atlético Dallas an internationally recognized name as it prepares to launch its roster for the 2027 USL Championship season.
