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Futbolista
A classmates-to-friends-to-lovers romance that's equal parts raunchy, heartfelt, queer, and Mexican-American, centered on college football (the REAL football)!
Gabriel Piña knows who he is: a college goalkeeper, a future Liga MX or MLS star, and definitely straight. He’s starting his freshman year with a lot of eyes on him and even more potential, but he’s got this. Nothing will have him straying off the path to greatness.
That is, until his philosophy classmate Vale volunteers to tutor him. Vale, the same guy who Gabi, in a moment of history repeating itself, might’ve kissed very briefly—and only once—just to help him out at a party. Vale, the smart, supportive, compassionate new friend with beautiful brown eyes and a smile that keeps Gabi, for completely inexplicable reasons, constantly in a daydream.
As a friendship blooms and the two spend more and more time together, Gabi finally begins to recognize something about himself: maybe he’s not as straight as he thought he was. But a larger and darker realization lingers. Someone like Gabi—a brown, Mexican futbolista with dreams of playing for El Tri—can’t also be bisexual. He’s seen the way his teammates and community react to queerness in their sport. It would be the exact type of straying off path that destroys his future.
Or, maybe Gabi could be brave enough to embrace all those parts of himself and forge his own path, one that includes a boyfriend and the beautiful game.
A sports romance for those who keep rewatching Bend It Like Beckham and rereading Red, White & Royal Blue and the incredible collection of queer soc—football romances out there, Futbolista follows the first semester of one guy's freshman year of college, navigating who he is, who he’s allowed to be, and who he wants to be.
Gabriel Piña knows who he is: a college goalkeeper, a future Liga MX or MLS star, and definitely straight. He’s starting his freshman year with a lot of eyes on him and even more potential, but he’s got this. Nothing will have him straying off the path to greatness.
That is, until his philosophy classmate Vale volunteers to tutor him. Vale, the same guy who Gabi, in a moment of history repeating itself, might’ve kissed very briefly—and only once—just to help him out at a party. Vale, the smart, supportive, compassionate new friend with beautiful brown eyes and a smile that keeps Gabi, for completely inexplicable reasons, constantly in a daydream.
As a friendship blooms and the two spend more and more time together, Gabi finally begins to recognize something about himself: maybe he’s not as straight as he thought he was. But a larger and darker realization lingers. Someone like Gabi—a brown, Mexican futbolista with dreams of playing for El Tri—can’t also be bisexual. He’s seen the way his teammates and community react to queerness in their sport. It would be the exact type of straying off path that destroys his future.
Or, maybe Gabi could be brave enough to embrace all those parts of himself and forge his own path, one that includes a boyfriend and the beautiful game.
A sports romance for those who keep rewatching Bend It Like Beckham and rereading Red, White & Royal Blue and the incredible collection of queer soc—football romances out there, Futbolista follows the first semester of one guy's freshman year of college, navigating who he is, who he’s allowed to be, and who he wants to be.
400 pages, Paperback
First published April 15, 2025
108 people are currently reading
5523 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 395 reviews
March 24, 2025
Take the emotions from ‘Stars in Your Eyes’, add a splash of Rachel Reid, cover it with Jonny Garza Villa’s writing, and ta-da: Futbolista is born!
Ander & Santi is my favorite of Jonny Garza Villa’s books, but it now competes with Futbolista, and Futbolista might be the winner.
When I started reading this book, I wasn’t sure if this story would hit me that hard. I even sighed for a moment when Gabi began to like Leana. But, oh boy, this story has so much to offer.
Gabi’s growth throughout this story is immense. Starting as a cocky, almost macho soccer player, he turns into a thoughtful goalkeeper who opens himself up to changes. Vale helps him with it, but indirectly, his philosophy professor Coolidge, maybe even more. Gabi’s so scared of falling out of line. Of being ‘not normal.’ And that part of being scared to be ‘not normal’ resonated so much with me. From that moment, I couldn’t tear my eyes from Futbolista.
I didn’t think this story would bring me to tears, but while reading the second part, so much rage simmered inside my chest. I wanted to yell, scream, and fight, but instead, I just sat on the couch, those tears burning behind my eyes.
But I also smiled. I loved, loved, loved Vale! Sweet, sparkling Vale. He was such a cute cinnamon roll. And I also adored Pérez. And Kat. Jonny writes such awesome characters. And in the end, a smile danced on my face while my eyes were wet again.
As someone from Europe, I cheered for Jonny Garza Villa so much because they called soccer football in this book, and that is the only right word for this sport!
Read this one y’all! Read it because you love sports romances. Read it because you love character growth. Or just read it because you’re a fan of Jonny Garza Villa’s books.
Thank you, Querido and Edelweiss, for this fantastic ARC!
Follow me on Instagram
Ander & Santi is my favorite of Jonny Garza Villa’s books, but it now competes with Futbolista, and Futbolista might be the winner.
When I started reading this book, I wasn’t sure if this story would hit me that hard. I even sighed for a moment when Gabi began to like Leana. But, oh boy, this story has so much to offer.
Gabi’s growth throughout this story is immense. Starting as a cocky, almost macho soccer player, he turns into a thoughtful goalkeeper who opens himself up to changes. Vale helps him with it, but indirectly, his philosophy professor Coolidge, maybe even more. Gabi’s so scared of falling out of line. Of being ‘not normal.’ And that part of being scared to be ‘not normal’ resonated so much with me. From that moment, I couldn’t tear my eyes from Futbolista.
I didn’t think this story would bring me to tears, but while reading the second part, so much rage simmered inside my chest. I wanted to yell, scream, and fight, but instead, I just sat on the couch, those tears burning behind my eyes.
But I also smiled. I loved, loved, loved Vale! Sweet, sparkling Vale. He was such a cute cinnamon roll. And I also adored Pérez. And Kat. Jonny writes such awesome characters. And in the end, a smile danced on my face while my eyes were wet again.
As someone from Europe, I cheered for Jonny Garza Villa so much because they called soccer football in this book, and that is the only right word for this sport!
Read this one y’all! Read it because you love sports romances. Read it because you love character growth. Or just read it because you’re a fan of Jonny Garza Villa’s books.
Thank you, Querido and Edelweiss, for this fantastic ARC!
Follow me on Instagram
March 28, 2025
5 stars. Emotionally resonant, unexpectedly steamy, and melding together a coming-of-age story, philosophy, and a love story with all of my favorite tropes, Futbolista is a winning goal of a new adult romance that sets a new gold standard for this genre.
July 30, 2025
Well, this was …intense. Happy to see bisexual representation done quite well (warning- the first 40% of the book it’s practically a MF story) . I gotta say, I could have done without the cheesiness and the internal monologue. No 18 years old kid talks like the 40 years old heroine of a melodramatic Tv series. But they were cute and fluffy and I felt for Gabi’s struggle.I adored his pops and his team mates so much.. They made me tear up towards the end.
I wish I could have known Vale a bit better. He was just there in the background to push the other MC’s character forward because by the end of the book we don’t know anything abt him or his real thoughts and feelings. He had no personality to speak of, he went along with everything Gabi said and did and he did his part when he was needed to and then went away when he wasn’t needed. He was like a secondary character in the main lead’s story.
All in all it’s an enjoyable book about a bisexual awakening and a sweet, uplifting story. I’m probably too old and cynical to savor it like it should be but for younger readers this is quite perfect.
I wish I could have known Vale a bit better. He was just there in the background to push the other MC’s character forward because by the end of the book we don’t know anything abt him or his real thoughts and feelings. He had no personality to speak of, he went along with everything Gabi said and did and he did his part when he was needed to and then went away when he wasn’t needed. He was like a secondary character in the main lead’s story.
All in all it’s an enjoyable book about a bisexual awakening and a sweet, uplifting story. I’m probably too old and cynical to savor it like it should be but for younger readers this is quite perfect.
May 30, 2025
In every Jonny book there is (at least) one line that takes me OUT and this one was “you and your roommates are more he/him than a Raising Cane’s” lollll
Anyway, fucking loved it, like always; publishing please keep giving me Jonny books forever thank you amen
Anyway, fucking loved it, like always; publishing please keep giving me Jonny books forever thank you amen
November 21, 2025
I absolutely loved Futbolista. As a Hispanic bisexual person myself, this book touched me deeply and felt like it healed a part of me I didn’t even realize needed healing. Gabi’s journey is a powerful, emotional exploration of self-acceptance, and I can’t even begin to express how much I connected with his story.
Gabi’s relationship with his parents was such a beautiful portrayal of love, support, and understanding. It reminded me that our families can be our strongest allies, even when we fear the worst. The bond he shares with them is unwavering, and it's such a comfort to see that kind of unconditional love depicted in the story. As someone who has struggled with the idea of coming out to my own family out of fear, Gabi’s story gave me a sense of hope and healing that I didn’t even know I needed.
The found family element in this book was another standout. Gabi’s teammates, especially Perez and Kat, were absolutely everything. Their support for Gabi is truly heartwarming. They were there for him through thick and thin, and they never judged him. It was a reminder that sometimes the people who aren't related to us by blood become the ones who make us feel truly seen and accepted.
But of course, the heart of the story is the relationship between Gabi and Vale. Their connection was just *everything*. From the very beginning, there was this vulnerability between them that was so raw and real. It was clear how much they cared for one another, and watching that relationship evolve was one of the most beautiful parts of the book. Vale’s unwavering support for Gabi, especially when things got difficult, made me root for them with everything I had. The way they navigated their feelings for each other—so patient, so understanding—was just gorgeous. I loved how this book didn’t shy away from the complexities of being vulnerable, and the growth both characters experienced, especially Gabi, was remarkable. Watching him evolve from page one to page 400 was a testament to how far he came in accepting himself.
What I also really appreciated about this book was how it tackled the complexity of being both part of the LGBTQ+ community and the Hispanic community, especially as an athlete. It’s a topic that isn’t often addressed, and this book highlighted the struggle of reconciling those identities. The pressure to fit into societal expectations, the fear of rejection from family and culture, and the tension of being an athlete in a world that often doesn't accept you fully were all explored in such an honest, raw way. The book touched on how some in the Hispanic community can be set in their ways, with attitudes that are less accepting of queerness, sometimes to the point of disapproval. It even touched on how certain families would refuse to support a player if they found out they were queer, which was a tough but important thing to witness. These moments made me feel seen in a way I didn’t expect, and it’s why I think this book is so important.
This book made me cry multiple times, and I’m not even mad about it. The emotional depth, the tender moments between Gabi and Vale, and the way it so beautifully illustrated the challenges and joys of embracing your true self—Futbolista resonated with me in such a profound way. I honestly loved every page of it, and I know it will stay with me for a long time.
If you’re looking for a book that is as heart-wrenching as it is uplifting, with a gorgeous romance and a deeply personal journey of self-discovery, I can’t recommend this book enough. It’s a vital read that shines a light on so many important topics, from LGBTQ+ struggles to cultural expectations, and I truly believe it has the power to help others who might be facing the same challenges.
UPDATE 5/3: I fucking love Gabi and Vale. 😭😭😭😭😭
LOL OOP IM BACK UPDATE 6/18: I WILL FOREVER BE OBSESSED WITH GABI AND VALE NO ONE CAN TAKE AWAY MY LOVE FOR THEM. I’m just mad tho cause I needed at least 3 epilogues.
7/3: HAHAHAHAHAHA IM BACK BITCHES. Anyways I cried. I cried a lot during this reread so idk what’s wrong with me. I love Gabi and Vale 😭😭😭😭
11/21: ILL SCREAM IT UNTIL IM BLUE IN THE FACE THESE TWO ARE EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!!!!!
Gabi’s relationship with his parents was such a beautiful portrayal of love, support, and understanding. It reminded me that our families can be our strongest allies, even when we fear the worst. The bond he shares with them is unwavering, and it's such a comfort to see that kind of unconditional love depicted in the story. As someone who has struggled with the idea of coming out to my own family out of fear, Gabi’s story gave me a sense of hope and healing that I didn’t even know I needed.
The found family element in this book was another standout. Gabi’s teammates, especially Perez and Kat, were absolutely everything. Their support for Gabi is truly heartwarming. They were there for him through thick and thin, and they never judged him. It was a reminder that sometimes the people who aren't related to us by blood become the ones who make us feel truly seen and accepted.
But of course, the heart of the story is the relationship between Gabi and Vale. Their connection was just *everything*. From the very beginning, there was this vulnerability between them that was so raw and real. It was clear how much they cared for one another, and watching that relationship evolve was one of the most beautiful parts of the book. Vale’s unwavering support for Gabi, especially when things got difficult, made me root for them with everything I had. The way they navigated their feelings for each other—so patient, so understanding—was just gorgeous. I loved how this book didn’t shy away from the complexities of being vulnerable, and the growth both characters experienced, especially Gabi, was remarkable. Watching him evolve from page one to page 400 was a testament to how far he came in accepting himself.
What I also really appreciated about this book was how it tackled the complexity of being both part of the LGBTQ+ community and the Hispanic community, especially as an athlete. It’s a topic that isn’t often addressed, and this book highlighted the struggle of reconciling those identities. The pressure to fit into societal expectations, the fear of rejection from family and culture, and the tension of being an athlete in a world that often doesn't accept you fully were all explored in such an honest, raw way. The book touched on how some in the Hispanic community can be set in their ways, with attitudes that are less accepting of queerness, sometimes to the point of disapproval. It even touched on how certain families would refuse to support a player if they found out they were queer, which was a tough but important thing to witness. These moments made me feel seen in a way I didn’t expect, and it’s why I think this book is so important.
This book made me cry multiple times, and I’m not even mad about it. The emotional depth, the tender moments between Gabi and Vale, and the way it so beautifully illustrated the challenges and joys of embracing your true self—Futbolista resonated with me in such a profound way. I honestly loved every page of it, and I know it will stay with me for a long time.
If you’re looking for a book that is as heart-wrenching as it is uplifting, with a gorgeous romance and a deeply personal journey of self-discovery, I can’t recommend this book enough. It’s a vital read that shines a light on so many important topics, from LGBTQ+ struggles to cultural expectations, and I truly believe it has the power to help others who might be facing the same challenges.
UPDATE 5/3: I fucking love Gabi and Vale. 😭😭😭😭😭
LOL OOP IM BACK UPDATE 6/18: I WILL FOREVER BE OBSESSED WITH GABI AND VALE NO ONE CAN TAKE AWAY MY LOVE FOR THEM. I’m just mad tho cause I needed at least 3 epilogues.
7/3: HAHAHAHAHAHA IM BACK BITCHES. Anyways I cried. I cried a lot during this reread so idk what’s wrong with me. I love Gabi and Vale 😭😭😭😭
11/21: ILL SCREAM IT UNTIL IM BLUE IN THE FACE THESE TWO ARE EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!!!!!
May 20, 2025
what’s the futbol version of “hit it out of the park”?
January 30, 2025
Sweet and emotional, Vale and Gabi will stay in your heart after the last page!
Jonny Garza Villa returns to the broader universe of 1500 Miles From The Sun with Gabriel Piña's bumpy road to being true to himself. Gabi wants to become a professional footballer, a space which isn't exactly known for its acceptance and inclusivity. He has it all planned, until sweet Vale turns his world upside down and gives him the gentle shove he needed to start asking the hard questions.
The story is sweet, hot and funny! Vale is a cinamonn roll, understanding, supportive and respecftul. Gabi is cocky and confident, he messes up, he learns from his mistakes and never stops growing. Their chemistry is amazing and the sexual tension is thick from the first moment they meet!
Gabi's friend group is hilariously chaotic, and highlight the importance of a support system: friends, family, mentors. Gabi overcomes his fears because deep down he trusts his people to have his back.
P.S. There are no points in football. They are called goals. There is no red flag, it's a red card. No team can go 10+ matches without conceding a goal, especially a non professional team. Research on football should have been a bit more thorough, it's not as if it's difficult to immitate the vocabulary and description style of the most popular sport in the world.
Thank you NetGalley and Levine Querido for the ARC!
Jonny Garza Villa returns to the broader universe of 1500 Miles From The Sun with Gabriel Piña's bumpy road to being true to himself. Gabi wants to become a professional footballer, a space which isn't exactly known for its acceptance and inclusivity. He has it all planned, until sweet Vale turns his world upside down and gives him the gentle shove he needed to start asking the hard questions.
The story is sweet, hot and funny! Vale is a cinamonn roll, understanding, supportive and respecftul. Gabi is cocky and confident, he messes up, he learns from his mistakes and never stops growing. Their chemistry is amazing and the sexual tension is thick from the first moment they meet!
Gabi's friend group is hilariously chaotic, and highlight the importance of a support system: friends, family, mentors. Gabi overcomes his fears because deep down he trusts his people to have his back.
P.S. There are no points in football. They are called goals. There is no red flag, it's a red card. No team can go 10+ matches without conceding a goal, especially a non professional team. Research on football should have been a bit more thorough, it's not as if it's difficult to immitate the vocabulary and description style of the most popular sport in the world.
Thank you NetGalley and Levine Querido for the ARC!
March 14, 2025
I've seen nothing but 5 star reviews for this, and I wish I felt the same way. I definitely get what people are coming from, because there's a lot to love, and I especially loved the ending, but it didn't fully work for me. This book was written with so much inner monologue from Gabi, and it made the story so slow. I felt like it was dragging for the majority of the book. I never felt like I was in situations with him, but rather like he was telling me about them and leaving a lot out so I couldn't fully experience them. This made it feel like not a lot was happening, and it made me feel removed from what did happen and from the characters, who I feel like we barely get to know. I did love Gabi and I loved the romance, but I felt like it didn't quite reach its full potential.
April 11, 2025
AN ABSOLUTE GEM OF A BOOK. loved loved loved this one. rtc.
adore this cover!! omg!!💙
thank you netgalley and publisher for granting me an ARC for this book.
adore this cover!! omg!!💙
thank you netgalley and publisher for granting me an ARC for this book.
January 18, 2025
Thanks JGV for ripping out my heart, letting me sob, and lovingly putting it back together.
Would risk it all for the friend group.
Full review to come.
*******
Thank you to Levine Querido for a digital copy to review!
A classmates-to-friends-to-lovers romance that's equal parts raunchy, heartfelt, queer, and Mexican-American, centered on college football (the REAL football)!
^from the publisher!
If you didn’t know, you do now that Jonny Garza Villa is one of my favorite authors. They write such beautiful, heartfelt stories. They always have a deeper meaning and emotion behind them which makes for an incredible reading experience.
Having said that - Futbolista is my favorite yet. It’s full of wit, charm, sexiness, love, self-discovery, growth, and an incredible amount of maturity in young adults.
I LOVED the age group of this. College kids are a tough group to get right and Jonny got it RIGHT. Vale and Gabi are the loves of my life and I will hear zero criticism of them. They are incredibly sexy, flirty, hot, vulnerable, consensual, they communicate well, and they have so much genuine love and respect for each other.
So much of this book is Gabi coming to terms with is bisexuality and how it affects his worldview with regard to football. The emotional journey he goes on is NOT to be missed.
I would risk it all for Gabi and Vale, along with his boys and Kat. I LOVED THEM. I want to be in that friend group. And if Jonny wanted to write a Perez book in the future I wouldn’t be mad…
This book tore at my heart, had me crying in a restaurant, and laughing through tears steaming down my face. I had 402 highlights. I can’t wait to mark up my own physical copy and you should preorder this one right now!!
Would risk it all for the friend group.
Full review to come.
*******
Thank you to Levine Querido for a digital copy to review!
A classmates-to-friends-to-lovers romance that's equal parts raunchy, heartfelt, queer, and Mexican-American, centered on college football (the REAL football)!
^from the publisher!
If you didn’t know, you do now that Jonny Garza Villa is one of my favorite authors. They write such beautiful, heartfelt stories. They always have a deeper meaning and emotion behind them which makes for an incredible reading experience.
Having said that - Futbolista is my favorite yet. It’s full of wit, charm, sexiness, love, self-discovery, growth, and an incredible amount of maturity in young adults.
I LOVED the age group of this. College kids are a tough group to get right and Jonny got it RIGHT. Vale and Gabi are the loves of my life and I will hear zero criticism of them. They are incredibly sexy, flirty, hot, vulnerable, consensual, they communicate well, and they have so much genuine love and respect for each other.
So much of this book is Gabi coming to terms with is bisexuality and how it affects his worldview with regard to football. The emotional journey he goes on is NOT to be missed.
I would risk it all for Gabi and Vale, along with his boys and Kat. I LOVED THEM. I want to be in that friend group. And if Jonny wanted to write a Perez book in the future I wouldn’t be mad…
This book tore at my heart, had me crying in a restaurant, and laughing through tears steaming down my face. I had 402 highlights. I can’t wait to mark up my own physical copy and you should preorder this one right now!!
September 23, 2025
This one came highly recommended so that's probably why I was expecting... More. Nothing wrong with it but it's too long and I wasn't too invested. It's an okay read.
April 7, 2025
||4.25||
FUTBOLISTA isn’t just a romance or a sports story—it’s a powerful, layered exploration of identity, love, and what it means to truly see yourself. Jonny Garza Villa crafts a narrative that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant, especially for anyone navigating life in brown skin while discovering (or defending) their queerness.
At its core, this is a college sports romance with all the heart you could ask for: found family, emotional intimacy, and that slow-burn yearning that makes you ache for the characters to just get on the same page already. The romantic tension is off the charts—not because of graphic scenes, but because of how tender and emotionally raw the connection is. It’s not about spice; it’s about depth (tho I cannot lie, the spice is hot without being overly descriptive too which I fear is an underrated talent) it’s about needing each other in a way that’s honest, vulnerable, and beautifully real.
What really struck me, though, were the philosophical undercurrents. The book asks big questions—about identity, change, authenticity—and it does so without ever feeling preachy. It reminds us that even when we think we know who we are, change is still possible. Necessary, even. And that sometimes, the hardest thing to do is look in the mirror and see the parts of ourselves we've buried to make other people comfortable.
One line that absolutely punched me in the chest was:
“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘦𝘦?”
That moment, like so many others in the book, hits at the cost of hiding parts of yourself to meet society’s expectations. It’s a call to be seen—not just by others, but by yourself.
The pacing is tight and immersive; even though the book is relatively long, I was captivated the entire time. Every scene felt intentional, every moment earned.
In short: FUTBOLISTA is a gem. A must-read. Romantic, reflective, and rooted in truths that are often left unsaid. I’d recommend it to anyone who wants more from a love story—something real, something that lingers.
_________
Imma have to check out this Authors backlist now.
Thank you Netgalley and Levine Querido publishing for the ARC.
FUTBOLISTA isn’t just a romance or a sports story—it’s a powerful, layered exploration of identity, love, and what it means to truly see yourself. Jonny Garza Villa crafts a narrative that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant, especially for anyone navigating life in brown skin while discovering (or defending) their queerness.
At its core, this is a college sports romance with all the heart you could ask for: found family, emotional intimacy, and that slow-burn yearning that makes you ache for the characters to just get on the same page already. The romantic tension is off the charts—not because of graphic scenes, but because of how tender and emotionally raw the connection is. It’s not about spice; it’s about depth (tho I cannot lie, the spice is hot without being overly descriptive too which I fear is an underrated talent) it’s about needing each other in a way that’s honest, vulnerable, and beautifully real.
What really struck me, though, were the philosophical undercurrents. The book asks big questions—about identity, change, authenticity—and it does so without ever feeling preachy. It reminds us that even when we think we know who we are, change is still possible. Necessary, even. And that sometimes, the hardest thing to do is look in the mirror and see the parts of ourselves we've buried to make other people comfortable.
One line that absolutely punched me in the chest was:
“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘦𝘦?”
That moment, like so many others in the book, hits at the cost of hiding parts of yourself to meet society’s expectations. It’s a call to be seen—not just by others, but by yourself.
The pacing is tight and immersive; even though the book is relatively long, I was captivated the entire time. Every scene felt intentional, every moment earned.
In short: FUTBOLISTA is a gem. A must-read. Romantic, reflective, and rooted in truths that are often left unsaid. I’d recommend it to anyone who wants more from a love story—something real, something that lingers.
_________
Imma have to check out this Authors backlist now.
Thank you Netgalley and Levine Querido publishing for the ARC.
February 14, 2025
I’m kind of embarrassed to say Futbolista is my first Jonny Garza Villa. If this tender, fun, heartbreaking romance is anything like his other novels, need to add them to my TBR.
Futbolista follows Gabi, a freshman in college with a bright future in futbol ahead of him. That is, until he meets Vale, a classmate in philosophy, a course that isn’t clicking for our futbol player. Vale agrees to tutor him, going from classmate to friend to lover. But Gabi is faced with a predicament: can the next futbol star be one of the top players, POC, and bi?
Villa does a wonderful job putting you in Gabi’s shoes as he falls in love with Vale and the struggle to be what others want of him, even if it means having to give up one of his loves. I won’t give anything else away, but things get raunchy without ever losing the sweetness, the message of being strong, and ultimately breaking through stereotypes.
The book isn’t perfect, but it’s close. I personally didn’t find some of the early chapter’s focus on futbol and there are growing pains queer folks sometimes deal with when first coming out like overthinking things that don’t translate as well in a book. Villa has created a beautiful world and love between Gabi and Vale (and some lovable side characters — special shout out to Kat). Thanks to NetGalley and Levine Querido for the ARC.
Futbolista follows Gabi, a freshman in college with a bright future in futbol ahead of him. That is, until he meets Vale, a classmate in philosophy, a course that isn’t clicking for our futbol player. Vale agrees to tutor him, going from classmate to friend to lover. But Gabi is faced with a predicament: can the next futbol star be one of the top players, POC, and bi?
Villa does a wonderful job putting you in Gabi’s shoes as he falls in love with Vale and the struggle to be what others want of him, even if it means having to give up one of his loves. I won’t give anything else away, but things get raunchy without ever losing the sweetness, the message of being strong, and ultimately breaking through stereotypes.
The book isn’t perfect, but it’s close. I personally didn’t find some of the early chapter’s focus on futbol and there are growing pains queer folks sometimes deal with when first coming out like overthinking things that don’t translate as well in a book. Villa has created a beautiful world and love between Gabi and Vale (and some lovable side characters — special shout out to Kat). Thanks to NetGalley and Levine Querido for the ARC.
April 9, 2025
My first book by Johnny Garza Villa, and, boy, it did not disappoint. Beautiful, intense writing, complex, well-developed characters, rich background of the story - I feel as if I have really lived in Corpus Christi, Texas. Gabi, the main character of the story, is definitely my favorite: an aspiring athlete, a first year student and, most importantly - a goalkeeper! I loved the changes he went through, his inner struggles, as well as his cocky, vivid, endearingly messy self. 4.5*
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this book.
September 16, 2025
I don't even think I could put into words how good this book is and how much I loved it. I flipped back and forth between Audio and ebook and have to give a shout out to the narrator, Robb Moreira - he embodied the chaotic sunshine that was Gabi.
This book brought out so many emotions in me! How a coming of age story about a young man learning more about himself is so relatable to a forty-something woman I have no idea, but it was. I think the whole feeling of wanting acceptance and worrying about how people view you is just so relatable, no matter gender or culture. Add in the Texas setting, Mexican-Texan culture, whataburger name drops and all the Futbol (which I am a huge fan of, go FC Dallas!) and I really shouldn't be surprised at all I guess.
Gabi is on his way to becoming a superstar in the Futbol world. Even as a freshman in college the world is taking notice of his talent and nothing will stand in his way of achieving his dreams... except for possibly a love that he never expected. Gabi is so beyond cocky, but he is an absolute delight! Like chaotic sunshine. Vale is a more reserved sunshine, just a calming presence and so supportive and understanding. They just vibe right away and develop a solid friendship that slowly builds to more. Truly a beautiful love story, and felt so raw and realistic.
Do you call it Found Family if they've been there all along? Well, Gabi's roommates/friends are hilarious and amazing. Everyone should have people in their life like these people. And don't get me started on Gabi's parents because I will probably tear up. Just fantastic.
Contemporary MM
Sports Romance
Coming of Age
Found Family
Sunshine x Sunshine
Friends To Lovers
Bi Awakening
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
This book brought out so many emotions in me! How a coming of age story about a young man learning more about himself is so relatable to a forty-something woman I have no idea, but it was. I think the whole feeling of wanting acceptance and worrying about how people view you is just so relatable, no matter gender or culture. Add in the Texas setting, Mexican-Texan culture, whataburger name drops and all the Futbol (which I am a huge fan of, go FC Dallas!) and I really shouldn't be surprised at all I guess.
Gabi is on his way to becoming a superstar in the Futbol world. Even as a freshman in college the world is taking notice of his talent and nothing will stand in his way of achieving his dreams... except for possibly a love that he never expected. Gabi is so beyond cocky, but he is an absolute delight! Like chaotic sunshine. Vale is a more reserved sunshine, just a calming presence and so supportive and understanding. They just vibe right away and develop a solid friendship that slowly builds to more. Truly a beautiful love story, and felt so raw and realistic.
Do you call it Found Family if they've been there all along? Well, Gabi's roommates/friends are hilarious and amazing. Everyone should have people in their life like these people. And don't get me started on Gabi's parents because I will probably tear up. Just fantastic.
Contemporary MM
Sports Romance
Coming of Age
Found Family
Sunshine x Sunshine
Friends To Lovers
Bi Awakening
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
September 9, 2025
And so Jonny Garza Villa scores yet again! It's sexy, heartfelt, hella queer, and just a whole lotta fun. In other words, Futbolista is everything you could wish for from a queer new adult sports romance.
While Ander & Santi still reigns as the champion of Garza Villa's books for me, Futbolista comes very close. And that is an impressive feat considering how little I care about football (be that the American or Mexican kind).
You see, I just really enjoyed Gabi as a protagonist, and his bisexual awakening journey and frustrating yet oh so painfully realistic inner conflict had me feeling all the feels. Though not gonna lie, I loved Vale even more, and I almost wish this had been dual POV just to get more time to know this absolute gem of a human being.
Their chemistry is just fire from the first page, even if it takes them (or really Gabi) quite a long time to admit that. But once he does, they are just so freaking cute and perfect together. Garza Villa strikes the perfect balance between the steaminess and emotionally vulnerable bonding, which is exactly why I was cheering them on so hard as they tried to figure out how to work out as a power couple.
There might be a certain level of predictability to this story, but I personally didn't mind that all too much and was just happily eating up all the good vibes and emotional turmoil. Futbolista is a beautiful journey of self-discovery, friendship, (self-)love, culture, and learning to unapologetically live as your true authentic self, and I can't recommend it highly enough.
While Ander & Santi still reigns as the champion of Garza Villa's books for me, Futbolista comes very close. And that is an impressive feat considering how little I care about football (be that the American or Mexican kind).
You see, I just really enjoyed Gabi as a protagonist, and his bisexual awakening journey and frustrating yet oh so painfully realistic inner conflict had me feeling all the feels. Though not gonna lie, I loved Vale even more, and I almost wish this had been dual POV just to get more time to know this absolute gem of a human being.
Their chemistry is just fire from the first page, even if it takes them (or really Gabi) quite a long time to admit that. But once he does, they are just so freaking cute and perfect together. Garza Villa strikes the perfect balance between the steaminess and emotionally vulnerable bonding, which is exactly why I was cheering them on so hard as they tried to figure out how to work out as a power couple.
There might be a certain level of predictability to this story, but I personally didn't mind that all too much and was just happily eating up all the good vibes and emotional turmoil. Futbolista is a beautiful journey of self-discovery, friendship, (self-)love, culture, and learning to unapologetically live as your true authentic self, and I can't recommend it highly enough.
April 23, 2025
2025 reads: 82/300
i received a digital review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
gabriel piña knows exactly who he is: one of the best college goalkeepers in the country, a future professional footballer, and definitely straight. he’s starting college confident in these facts, and nothing will stray him from his path to greatness…that is, until he meets vale, the guy gabi briefly kissed at a party, who just so happens to be his new philosophy tutor. as he slowly begins to realize he just might have feelings for vale, he begins to wonder what being bisexual would mean for him, as a brown, mexican futbolista.
i adored jonny garza villa’s ander & santi were here and canto contigo, so i was very excited to read this book! i snatched it up as soon as i saw it in netgalley’s “read now” section. i loved this exploration of queerness in a college student. as i stated earlier, gabi started the book very sure of himself, but the rest of this book is, more or less, his identity crisis. it’s very hard for him to accept this part of himself considering the way his team, whom he considers his brothers, reacted to another team’s player being outed, as well as his parents’ and culture’s beliefs. all this emotional turmoil while he has playoffs to win. needless to say, this was not an easy journey for him, but luckily, vale supported him and was patient with him throughout it.
with all that said, this book was not all heavy. there were some lighter moments, and i found myself laughing and smiling at some points. overall, this was a wonderful young adult romance. i highly recommend this, and i can’t wait for more from jonny garza villa!
i received a digital review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
gabriel piña knows exactly who he is: one of the best college goalkeepers in the country, a future professional footballer, and definitely straight. he’s starting college confident in these facts, and nothing will stray him from his path to greatness…that is, until he meets vale, the guy gabi briefly kissed at a party, who just so happens to be his new philosophy tutor. as he slowly begins to realize he just might have feelings for vale, he begins to wonder what being bisexual would mean for him, as a brown, mexican futbolista.
i adored jonny garza villa’s ander & santi were here and canto contigo, so i was very excited to read this book! i snatched it up as soon as i saw it in netgalley’s “read now” section. i loved this exploration of queerness in a college student. as i stated earlier, gabi started the book very sure of himself, but the rest of this book is, more or less, his identity crisis. it’s very hard for him to accept this part of himself considering the way his team, whom he considers his brothers, reacted to another team’s player being outed, as well as his parents’ and culture’s beliefs. all this emotional turmoil while he has playoffs to win. needless to say, this was not an easy journey for him, but luckily, vale supported him and was patient with him throughout it.
with all that said, this book was not all heavy. there were some lighter moments, and i found myself laughing and smiling at some points. overall, this was a wonderful young adult romance. i highly recommend this, and i can’t wait for more from jonny garza villa!
dnf
September 9, 2025dnf @ 74%
Haven't picked this up in a month so I'm just accepting that I am over it. I was really enjoying this one right off the bat and thought it had a lot of great quotes but the second half just kind of left me bored. I'm notorious for not really finding enjoyment in a relationship once they actually get together so this was probably a me problem and not the book. It all just started to feel really cringe so rip.
Haven't picked this up in a month so I'm just accepting that I am over it. I was really enjoying this one right off the bat and thought it had a lot of great quotes but the second half just kind of left me bored. I'm notorious for not really finding enjoyment in a relationship once they actually get together so this was probably a me problem and not the book. It all just started to feel really cringe so rip.
October 11, 2025
This was super cute!! We had an angsty 3rd act breakup which is usually a big no for me but I kinda saw it coming with the story. I liked the single POV, this is very much Gabriel/ Gabi/ Gabo’s story. Fun college soccer biawakening romance
June 29, 2025
This could’ve easily been a hundred pages shorter without all the pointless inner monologue (I skimmed most of the second half because of it).
Not really sure how I feel about the writing (loved it at times, cringed at others).
Not really sure how I feel about the writing (loved it at times, cringed at others).
September 7, 2025
I enjoyed this book but am not sure how to rate it. It had elements of a four star read and is a nice, engaging book. It just had a couple of elements I was not as fond of. I guess I will put it at three stars.
What I liked:
Well-drawn primary character-we really experience his perspective and see who he is
Well-drawn universe
Sweet romance
What I did not like:
Some predictability-this caused me to skim a few parts
Third romance I have read recently where one of the characters seems like a reward for the other. Not fully fleshed out except as an object of desire
What I liked:
Well-drawn primary character-we really experience his perspective and see who he is
Well-drawn universe
Sweet romance
What I did not like:
Some predictability-this caused me to skim a few parts
Third romance I have read recently where one of the characters seems like a reward for the other. Not fully fleshed out except as an object of desire
Read
June 16, 2025DNF at about 20%. I was interested in the story and the characters, but the writing just wasn't for me. Very heavy on the almost stream of consciousness internal monologue, with constant pop culture references, and the dialogue was too often cringe. Nope.
Want to read
July 2, 2024AAAAAAAAAAAAAAA IM SO EXCITED
June 5, 2025
4'5⭐️
Can't believe that a book that deals with so much football (soccer) and philosophy has made me feel so many feels...
Can't believe that a book that deals with so much football (soccer) and philosophy has made me feel so many feels...
July 20, 2025
so that was amazing.. sports romance stays on top! i felt so seen throughout the whole book and the writing was sooo good ugh my heart is full.
September 6, 2025
loved this SO much more than i expected!! i really felt this book so viscerally, so so sooo good
June 6, 2025
I'm convinced no one writes queer YA the way Jonny Garza Villa does. They seem to be in a mission to dismantle homophobia and transphobia in all the intersections of being Latinx and queer, one stunning coming of age story at a time. Four books in, I now know why his use of single POV does not bother me as much as other romances -- his stories are not just love stories, they are coming of age stories which are essentially about learning to love yourself. I was a little worried I wouldn't relate to an athlete POV, but somehow Gabi may be one of my favorite protagonists of author's so far. Perhaps because I also grew up in a football (the real one) culture, and his journey to his bisexuality is not so different than my own. He is also a math student dabbling in philosophy, much like my own study of engineering and philosophy. I related a lot to his internal conflict of knowing he isn't homophobic but taking so long to connect the dots of his own queerness. Not to mention the fear of losing people and cultural identities that so deeply define him. But once he does accept it, he spends no time in any kind of shame and lets himself love and hold on to Vale as hard as he could. There was something so refreshing about a character, coming out of denial of his own queerness and immediately honoring and embracing the beauty of the love and the lover, without spending any time in internalized shame. In any other queer YA romance, I would be upset at not having Vale's POV, but somehow in this I was able to love Vale completely even without it because Gabi's POV was one of clarity and self-actualization, triggered by his love for someone's entire being exceeding his fear of rejection. I loved how he loves and I loved how he opened himself up to grow in love. I ADORED his group of futbolista roommates and nonbinary friend, and even a character who could easily have been a source of ex drama. I was a little surprised by how much sex there was in this, but I guess college freshmen be horny like that, and this IS a book about the journey of sexuality and machismo. They never felt gratuitous in description, and there was so much joy in this. Both about falling and being in love not just with someone unexpected, but also a lifelong dream and most importantly, the undiscovered parts of yourself.
June 10, 2025
This is somewhere between four and five stars for me. I suspect if I read it with my ears, I would be rounding up but in reading with my eyes, there were a few things that didn't work great for me that I noticed enough to have me rounding down to four. But let's see where I land when I re-read in audio later! Let me be clear, I will read whatever Jonny Garza Villa writes and I am confident I will find myself enjoying it most of the time. Their voice always hits for me. And in Futbolista in particular, I loved spending time with Gabi and his crew and I very much enjoyed this transition to new adult. The things that didn't work great for me were a bit logistical (which took me out of the story) and I am a bit sensitive to the depictions of villains (it's really hard to get the nuance right). But overall I had a very good time reading and will be re-reading for sure and won't miss whatever the author puts out next.
I received a digital Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Levine Querido in exchange for an honest review.
I received a digital Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Levine Querido in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2025
A perfect book to enjoy on this first day of Pride.
I so appreciate this sweet story of this young male athlete's becoming aware of his bisexuality while falling in love with a fellow male student. I found the storycrafting to be solid (with some expected tropes); it held my attention and as importantly it was believable within the confines of these covers. The writing style is confident and assured, mature.
I like the premise and was pleased that their blossoming relationship was romantic and reflected their context. Their connection through a philosophy class worked well, especially when Plato's "Allegory of a Cave" served as a meaningful device for Gabi's self-revelation and subsequent decisions. Several things were too convenient, e.g., Vale's adeptness at philosophy, Gabi's support crew (esp. Kat, a transman), the conflict near the end that leads to the tropey repair); and I accepted all these because the overarching story was smart, had the right amount of "feels," and was told in voice that was clear and thoughtful.
I especially appreciate that this featured two Mexican American men falling in love. The diversity of Gabi's squad is also great (while a bit too convenient).
Yeah, I teared up a few times. It was a romantic book.
This title is the third of Garza Villa's that I've read. And each time, the book makes me feel good.
I so appreciate this sweet story of this young male athlete's becoming aware of his bisexuality while falling in love with a fellow male student. I found the storycrafting to be solid (with some expected tropes); it held my attention and as importantly it was believable within the confines of these covers. The writing style is confident and assured, mature.
I like the premise and was pleased that their blossoming relationship was romantic and reflected their context. Their connection through a philosophy class worked well, especially when Plato's "Allegory of a Cave" served as a meaningful device for Gabi's self-revelation and subsequent decisions. Several things were too convenient, e.g., Vale's adeptness at philosophy, Gabi's support crew (esp. Kat, a transman), the conflict near the end that leads to the tropey repair); and I accepted all these because the overarching story was smart, had the right amount of "feels," and was told in voice that was clear and thoughtful.
I especially appreciate that this featured two Mexican American men falling in love. The diversity of Gabi's squad is also great (while a bit too convenient).
Yeah, I teared up a few times. It was a romantic book.
This title is the third of Garza Villa's that I've read. And each time, the book makes me feel good.
May 8, 2025
This is now the second book I've read from JGV-- the first being Ander & Santi Were Here and now I need to read their backlog. This book was SO good and the narrator was the perfect fit for Gabi. I found myself physically reacting to things in this story whether it was good or bad. Gabi has the best of friends in his corner and I loved getting to watch him find and love himself.
Vale, Kat and friends have a special place in my heart, as well as Gabi's parents. JGV has done it again.
Vale, Kat and friends have a special place in my heart, as well as Gabi's parents. JGV has done it again.
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