The 38-year-old forward, Mexico's all-time leading goalscorer with 52 international goals and three World Cup appearances, has agreed a two-year deal that gives the club the right to extend for a third year, with the move still needing sign-off from the league and Mexican federation. Dallas will begin USL Championship play in 2027, one tier below Major League Soccer.
Hernández's professional career began at Chivas Guadalajara in 2006 before spells at Manchester United, Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, West Ham United, Sevilla and LA Galaxy, followed by a return to Chivas and a stint as a World Cup analyst for FOX Sports during this year's tournament. Atlético Dallas becomes the ninth club of his career.
"From the very beginning, our dream wasn't simply to launch another professional soccer club," said Matt Valentine, Founder and Chairman of Atlético Dallas.
"Our dream was to build a club that truly belongs to Dallas. Javier believed in that vision…
"His career speaks for itself, but it's his leadership, humility, competitive spirit, and genuine love for the game that make him the perfect person to help write the first chapter in Atlético Dallas history."
Dallas has emerged as one of the most dynamic football markets in the United States on the back of this year's FIFA World Cup, a boom in youth participation across the region, and one of the country's largest Hispanic communities, which the club has made central to its identity.
"I've been fortunate to live the dreams that every young footballer hopes to experience," Hernández said. "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."
"I believe Dallas deserves a club that reflects its passion for football, its diversity, and its future," Hernández added. "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."
Sporting Director Brian Corcoran said the signing sets the tone for the club's culture.
"Javier gives us world-class quality on the field, but just as importantly he brings professionalism, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to winning. Those qualities become contagious inside a locker room, and they're exactly what we want this club to represent from day one," Corcoran said. "His willingness to mentor, combined with the qualities he will bring on the field makes this a perfect first signing for our club."
First Team Manager Peter Luccin, appointed in February after a playing career in LaLiga and Ligue 1, said Hernández's influence would extend beyond goals scored.
"Players earn respect through the standards they set every day," Luccin said. "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 welcomed the signing as a statement of intent for the league.
"The league is excited to welcome a player of Javier's talent, experience and international acclaim to the USL Championship," Alumbaugh said. "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."