Ted Lasso and the rest of the AFC Richmond squad can be played as a team in the upcoming FIFA 23.
The adorable squad had rumors circulating about their existence in EA’s latest release. Previously, certain data leaks showed AFC Richmond, a fictional side of Ted Lasso’s Apple TV+ show, appearing in menus. However, Ted Lasso’s official Twitter account posted a photo of lead actor Jason Sudeikis in front of the cameras. Consequently, the EA Sports FIFA account responded with an emoji of emotion.
As stated, AFC Richmond is not a real team, nor is Ted Lasso a real manager, as much as the fans want him to be. However, the side’s fictional run in the English pyramid is theoretically accurate, though sometimes hard to believe with Lasso’s plays. With a recently announced deal with Nike as Richmond’s shirt sponsor and Premier League licenses for teams to appear on the show, joining FIFA is another part of the Ted Lasso story that seems more real.
Ted Lasso in FIFA 23
In terms of gameplay, there is limited information available on the possibilities with AFC Richmond. Since all players, from Jamie Tartt to Roy Kent, are fictional, creating complex stats for each player is a challenge.
That said, the Ted Lasso FIFA 23 preview video featured many of the well-known players, as well as Lasso and his assistant, Coach Beard.
As well as seeing Roy Kent’s flying challenge or Jamie Tartt launching one off the far post, AFC Richmond’s stadium will also be in the game. The same goes for the fictional dating service found on the front of the AFC Richmond uniform, ‘bantr’.
Perhaps the best part of that official trailer is the appearance of real-life soccer icons. Manchester City’s Jack Grealish appeared as a cameo before Roy Kent horribly tackled his in-game self. Current DC United manager Wayne Rooney commented on Ted Lasso’s coaching ability, as did former Arsenal striker Ian Wright.
FIFA 23 has an initial release date set for September 26 (now available for pre-order). That is exclusively for the latest edition. General access begins on September 30. At any time, users can play as AFC Richmond and take on the role of Ted Lasso leading the team to glory.
