FIFA 23 is set to bring a whole host of new features, including the debut of women’s clubs and more realistic player interactions.
But what most fans won’t have anticipated is the potential introduction of a certain fictional manager and his team – Ted Lasso and AFC Richmond.
‘Ted Lasso’, an American show first aired in 2020, is based on the story of an American football coach hired to manage a British football team, despite being seriously under qualified.
Now, after two seasons, the show’s star Ted Lasso – who’s played by American actor Jason Sudeikis – and his team AFC Richmond could feature in FIFA 23.
That’s what the character’s tweets suggest, anyway…
The brand new edition of the popular football video game will be available on September 27th.
And ahead of it’s launch, Lasso’s account – presumably run by Sudeikis – tweeted a picture hinting his character could be part of the new version.
“Look out, Mario!” Lasso wrote on Tuesday, “You’re not the only pixelated man with a moustache who never knows where the tube is taking him…”
Along with his tweet, Lasso posted a picture of him appearing to get a face scan – something footballers in the game have famously done when accurately represented in the game.
Adding fuel to the rumours, the game’s official account EA SPORTS FIFA replied to Lasso’s tweet with a pair of eyes emoji.
Whilst Lasso’s cameo in FIFA hasn’t been officially confirmed, there’s also been speculation that AFC Richmond – the side Lasso takes over in the award-winning series – will feature, too.
According to reports, the team was seen when FIFA 23’s website first went live. However, it was quickly removed.
Lasso may be a fictional character, but he’s actually inspired those who actually sit at the top of football – Mikel Arteta, Arsenal boss, who said he took inspiration from the coach’s positive attitudes.
Jesse Marsch, Leeds’ American boss, has also mentioned Lasso since he moved to the Premier League. He said Lasso This stereotype reinforces the notion that coaches from the USA don’t fare well in England..
Sudeikis was also recently spotted at Brentford’s game against ArsenalHe was jokingly accompanied by Coach Beard on a secret scouting mission.
