FIFA 23 to feature Ted Lasso crossover with playable AFC Richmond
EA have announced that FIFA 23 will include a crossover with hit Apple TV series Ted Lasso, bringing AFC Richmond to Career Mode, Pro Clubs, and more.
Fans of the Apple TV’s critically-acclaimed comedy, Ted Lasso, will have dreamed of stepping into the loveable coach’s shoes and taking control of AFC Richmond. Well, as an infamous sign hanging in a changing room once said: “Believe.”
EA have announced that FIFA 23 will launch with a Ted Lasso crossover, bringing the fictional club to a number of the game’s most popular modes.
Players will be able to select Lasso himself as one of FIFA 23 Career Mode‘s authentic managers and drop him into the hot seat of AFC Richmond or any other club. Alternatively, the option is there to create your own manager and show the Diamond Dogs how it’s done.
If you prefer Player Career, you can sign for the club in a league of your choosing and look to win the manager’s approval. The squad even features all of the biggest names from the TV show, including Roy Kent, Jamie Tartt, Sam Obisanya, and Dani Rojas.
Outside of Career Mode, AFC Richmond will appear as a playable team in Kick-Off, Online Friendlies, and Online Seasons, although it’s unclear at this stage how the squad will be rated compared to the likes of Manchester City and PSG.
Based on the club’s standing at the end of Ted Lasso Season 2, we’d expect somewhere around the three-and-a-half star range.
The crossover will also reach into Ultimate Team, with Ted Lasso and Coach Beard manager items, authentic kits, and themed cosmetics unlockable for everyone via in-game objectives and challenges.
On top of all this, the iconic Nelson Road is fully realized as an in-game stadium, meaning it can become players’ home ground in both Ultimate Team and Pro Clubs.
The FIFA series isn’t well-known for its crossovers, but EA are clearly looking to branch out in FIFA 23 after already announcing a deal with Marvel. However, this is easily the biggest and most complete crossover we’ve seen in the franchise to date.
With FIFA 23 set to launch on September 27 in early access, players don’t have too long to wait before hopping in and guiding the Greyhounds to glory.
For more on FIFA 23, check out our guide on how to trade on the Web App, and the best strikers in this year’s game.
Image credits: EA SPORTS / Apple TV