Thanks to NetGalley and Levine Querido for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Please keep in mind the following content warning: Biphobia, Homophobia, Sexual Content.

Jonny Garza Villa is one of my favourite authors. I have read all of their books, and I haven't been disappointed even once. This book is everything I hoped for from them and more. It maintains everything I have fallen for in all their books while also outdoing everything that came before.

Seeing Piña realise that, no, you don't have all figured out by 18 and that's okay was something that I think every young adult needs before heading to adulthood. I loved how much focus this book put on the idea of change, not just as people but also how the culture around us can change as long as we challenge. Futbolista comes to challenge the machismo that comes with Mexican football (I'm not calling it s*ccer) culture while also telling us it doesn't have to stay like that. Of course, I can't speak over Mexicans, but as someone who grew up around machismo and as a football fan, this is something not so far from me. My love for football has also been bittersweet, and I even started to avoid it in recent years. However, reading this book reminded me why I loved the sport and I can't let bigots take that away from me.

Piña and Vale were also so dear to me. How they supported each other and were always ready to defend and protect each other drove me insane in the best way possible. I find more and more reasons to love this book the longer I sit here and think about it. Jonny never fails to make me laugh, sob, scream, curse them out in Spanish, and I will always love/hate them for it.

I seriously need more people to grab and read their books, and honestly, this book is perfect for people who love people and that one friend who can't shut the hell up about Red, White, and Royal Blue (it's me, hi, I'm the problem).

This book was one of my most anticipated books for the year. I have read all of the books by the author, and I have to admit I was exeptic about this one. Until I heard that the main character was Piña, who was a secondary character in “fifteen hundred miles from the sun” which I loved so much.
And futbolista doesn’t disappoint, it has this funny side that every book by the author has and also this side of sadness.
This book just made me feel like the first time I read “fifteen hundred” crying of happiness and sadness as equals parts, this one made me feel anxious at parts but I really enjoyed the whole story, and I loved the way it’s connected with the other book but without the necessity of had to read it, it’s his own story and doesn’t depend on other the other one, but having the context of it makes this one much better, because you read growth in the characters and how the backstory affected the present of the character. I really enjoyed this book so much.
Shout out to pops to make me cry.

This book was a very fun and well-written bi-awakening story! I love how it takes time to show so much of the joy that comes from exploring a newly discovered part of oneself, even amidst all the questioning and the conflicts from the outside.

Gabi was such an endearing character, I really loved following him and his group of friends as they navigate the newfound freedom of being in college, on your own for the first time.

Gabi's take on that experience was a bit different from what we usually see because he begins with this assuredness in who he is and what his future looks like, college is merely another step to get there in his eyes. I loved how interlaced with his philosophy class his bi-awakening was, not just because of Vale's presence but also the material itself. Throughout the story there's this theme of breaking through one's chains — in Gabi's case that is breaking free from people's expectations, machismo and his own fears — that I found so meaningful and it definitely struck a chord in me.

The other characters were also great. Vale was incredibly sweet, as were Gabi's roommates, Kat but also Leana. I love the way that each of them stepped in to support Gabi in their own ways. The only thing I found myself wishing for is more character building when it came to them, or at least Vale. For how much this book is character driven, we really only focus on Gabi and after closing the book, I just didn't feel like I knew a lot about Vale. But, to be honest, this is something I will overlook here because it's the story of Gabi's bi-awakening so it makes sense for him to be the center and sole focus. Overall, I think the writing wasn't exactly to my taste but that's only subjective.

This was also the book that made me realize that I actually really love sports in books. I was fully immersed in every single match, the tension was very well captured. Also loved how this portrayed the homoeroticism of sports and thanks Kat for fully acknowledging it!

I will say that, on many fronts, this book wasn't quite made for me because the main character's experiences of life and queerness are very different from mine so there is only so much I can speak on. But I think this book will mean a lot for people who relate more personally to Gabi so I highly recommend it if that's you. I would also recommend this for anyone looking for something that hits a nice balance between seriousness and pure fun (and also a huge dose of horniness because these characters are really down bad, all of them)

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC

I ended up DNFing this book which made me incredibly sad as I have read other books by Villa and highly enjoyed. I could not get past the inaccuracies with soccer/football/futbol. I am fine with some creative liberties with it being a work of fiction however, there are some things that should be correct when writing a book.

- There are not red flags in soccer. It's either a yellow card or red card.
- The entire scene when they played at Arizona. After they tie the captains meet at midfield, Barrera says "they're interested in doing penalty kicks", first, this would never happen in college soccer. Second, it doesn't appear they were taking penalty kicks at all based on the quote "It's a solid kick... goes right over my teammates' jump." and "I can tell that's a beautiful kick. A line of Arizona players jump..." That would be free kicks which are completely different than penalty kicks which are taken from the spot, kicker v. keeper.

I'm sure there are more instances of the wrong terminology used but I only got to 34% of the book, between the inaccuracies, the awkward word choices (using the word cringe/cringey etc.) and the overly weird descriptions during sex/masturbation (beating my meat, post-nut etc.) I could not continue. Additionally, the beginning of the book with the hazing made minimal sense and seemed extremely random when compared to the rest of the book.

Thank you NetGalley and Levine Querido for the ARC!

What a fun read this was. Our main character has so many great people surrounding him. I loved seeing his relationship with his parents and close friends. This is a book with no backstabbing or useless fights with our two lovers, just a lot of understanding and love. There is a lot of football (real football, or american soccer) and I don't know anything about that sport so there are a few paragraphs I skim read, but it did not take away the fun of following the plot overall.

Who's squealing??!?!? I AM!!! What a fantastic, emotional, brilliant sports romance that repped bisexuality THE BEST EVER!!!!! I'm legit choking up still thinking about this endearing story about falling in love while brown and sports-ing! my heart was totally in my throat when all the toxic things went down in the 3rd act, because just remembering being 18 and vulnerable as fk emotionally damn near made me throw up from being afraid for Gabi. Jonny Garza Villa had me crying some fat ugly tears for Gabi and Vale at the end there, and that made sense because from the jump i was grinning for these boys and their instant chemistry!

I don't usually read YA/NA but Villa has made me look twice. And now more than ever I don't think my previous hang-ups were my fault. Because Futbolista was brilliant, deeply moving writing, with intelligent and compassionate messaging, and characterization that made me feel like these people were all real and i want to be friends with all of them! And because I can't stress the quality of narrative here enough, i thought Futbolista was truly outstanding, and one of the small few who stand head and shoulders above the rest!

Futbolista was a sports romance, but it's more than JUST that. It's got that hot and young summer vibe, with the best friend group and a family dynamic that made me feel safe and secure and happy! And alongside that halcyon youth flex was Gabi's very developed POV. It encompassed the above, but also "headed for the pros" career-athlete mentality, societal and team expectations...and ofc everything in between. Gabi's practices and game days read like what i would expect a sports star to be grappling with. It was rigorous and charming and heartfelt.

There was also very accessible philosophy that made me giggle thinking about infallible 18yos who assert that they're done changing. Cute. And Vale was just absolute perfection. Adorable, lovable, supportive, smart. I had big feelings for the both of them and THIS WAS THE KIND OF HEA I WANT IN MY READING LIFE ALWAYS!!!!

The narrative was VERY multidimensional, and its scope and depth was impressive, and i'm sure that i'll be thinking about these characters for a long, long time to come!

I had the best time with this stunning, wonderful book, and because i wholeheartedly NEED more Jonny Garza Villa in my brain for comfort reasons, I'm beyond ready for Canto Contigo and to lose myself in a "Mariachi rivals-to-lovers" romance! I'm already gleeful and I can't think of a more perfect sentiment to end off on than that! Can't wait!

I loved this! Gabi and Vale deserve the world. I loved the South Texas setting and super important queer Latine rep. I also loved the side characters! Pérez is everything to me 🥹 Overall, this was a really sweet, funny, well-written, and spicy story. I did feel like the pacing was a little weird, and I also felt like there was all this tension and then everything just kind of....resolved. But overall, a really great book.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of Futbolista.

As a huge fan of Jonny Garza Villa’s work, I had high expectations for Futbolista, and it exceeded them all. This novel is a great blend of humor, emotion, and authentic representation that takes readers on a heartfelt journey.

The story centers on Gabriel “Gabi” Piña, a college freshman goalkeeper with aspirations of becoming a professional soccer player. His world is meticulously planned until he connects with Vale, who he once shared a brief, unexpected kiss with Gabi at a party. Their evolving relationship is portrayed with perfect pacing and palpable tension, making their eventual romance both inevitable and deeply satisfying.

The supporting characters add richness to the narrative. Perez provides much-needed comic relief with his hilarious antics, and I loved the storyline with Leanna. The dynamics within Gabi’s friend group highlight the importance of a supportive community, especially when confronting personal and societal challenges.

Futbolista is more than a romance; it’s a celebration of culture, love, and futbol. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a story that will make them laugh, cry, and reflect.

I liked the internal struggle of this story that Gabi faced and that storyline really brought it together. Overall, I found it to be really focused on the sex and less on the storyline. While I don’t mind spice in my books, it felt like it was off.

Book : futbolista
Author:Jonny Garza Villa
Release date: 04/15/2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75


I was so excited to read this book. I have read all of Jonny’s books previously and I always feel so my so much heart and happiness.

I felt so much fear and pain for Gabi. Being so sure of yourself but learning something new about yourself that is different than “traditional” is so scary. But I was so proud of him to listen to his heart and not his fear.

Val was such a great friend and partner. They spoke and were supportive of each other.

One of the main reasons, I adore these authors books is because I learn something . I feel so much.

It was a great story, the characters were wonderful.

Thank you so much for the arc!

Futbolista

Tropes:
MM Romance
Friends to Lovers
Societal Expectations

This was my first time reading a book by Johnny Garza Villa, and it definitely won’t be my last. I applaud Futbolista for many reasons- the dashes of Spanglish sprinkled throughout, it's heartfelt depiction of familia, and its honest exploration of internal struggles, particularly the challenges of coming out within the Latinx community.

As a Latina, I deeply resonated with the book's portrayal of machismo in the Latinx community and its impact. While I have been aware of the effects of these cultural expectations and standards on women, Futbolista provides a necessary perspective on how it also impacts men, especially those in the queer community.

Why You’ll Love It:

Gabi- The main character is all heart, whether as a keeper, son, friend, or partner. He is always the first to put his neck on the line for those he loves.

Nostalgia Vibes: Futbolista will transport you to sunny skies and carefree days of goofing off with your friends.

Comfort for the heart and stomach: While reading, you will be craving mangonadas to carne asada. Be ready to make a trip to the taqueria. Consider yourself warned!

Futbolista made me laugh and cry, but most of all, it felt like a warm hug, comforting and deeply personal in the best way.

Thank you to Netgalley and Levine Querido for the opportunity to read Futbolista and Jonny for writing such a meaningful story. I can’t wait to read more of your work.

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.

A really lovely coming of age story. I enjoyed reading about the boys growing relationship and thought that this felt like an authentic representation of so many of the thoughts and feelings connected to exploring more of your sexuality as you continue learning more about yourself. Lots of great side characters and beautiful connections between Gabi and his friends and family. I enjoyed the second half more as it took a while for the momentum to build but really enjoyed this. Thanks for much for the review copy.

A new favorite for me! ❤️
These two are such lover boys, and so lusty!

Ugh, where to even start with this one. This follows Gabi Piña, a Mexican football (soccer if you must) star in the making and Vale, a philosophy major who happens to end up tutoring him in Philosophy.

Gabi thinks he has his life all in order and planned out. He knows who he is and is comfortable in that. So he sometimes thinks about a guy or enjoys a kiss with one. He's straight.... right? Well, we get to follow Gabi's journey of awareness, acceptance, and coming out. Jonny managed to make this hilarious, heartfelt, emotional, and fun all in one book.

Vale was just such a sweetheart and painfully obvious 😅 He truly was the best! He was so supportive and kind and I wanted to give him the biggest hug.

The side characters in this book were all so well written and presented. Their personalities and their roles in the story just blended so seamlessly.

The writing in this book brought me so much comfort! We get some Spanish and Mexican way of speaking that just brought me joy to read in a book. 🇲🇽❤️

Obviously, 5 juicy stars from me! Please add this to your TBR immediately!

This story is a classmates-friends-to-lovers story surrounding a football (the *real* football of course) star Gabriel. This story, much like the author's other works, is beautifully crafted and the coming-of-age self-discovery is so well written. I loved everything about this book and I hope to see more of this author's work in this genre.

What a fun and spicy romp this book was! It centers on Gabi, a freshman soccer player (aka Futbolista) in Corpus Christi, Texas. While quickly rising the ranks of becoming one of the best college goalkeepers in the country, he develops feelings for Vale, his philosophy tutor. Throughout the book, Gabi gradually comes to terms with his queerness, and if/how it can coexist within his football and Mexican American identities.

This book initially grabbed my attention due to the soccer plot, but sucked me in with its positive, funny, and authentic narrative while Gabi struggles to figure out and come to terms with his identity. Yes, there were some confrontations and climaxes (in way more ways than one!), but the unconditional love and support from Gabi’s friends and family outweighed the negativity of the bi/homophobic characters. Villa has written an empowering book that envisions the best in people when a character bares their true self. Also, did I mention the SPICE?! 🥵

Gabriel Pina has a bright future ahead of him, as a freshman goalkeeper superstar on his college soccer team he plans to make it to the pros one day in wither Liga MX or MLS. Futbol is his passion. The pressure is on when he is name on a list of Top 10 Freshman to watch for. He knows he's got this. His coach, team captain, and teammates are all counting on him and he won't let them down. As a Mexican-American, he knows that there are certain expectations on how to act, and what kind of futbolista to be. He thought he knew everything about himself, until he met Vale. They kissed at a party on a dare, and Gabi can't stop thinking about him. When he realizes that they are in the same philosophy class, Vale offers to tutor him and they become good friends. However, Gabi can't keep him off his mind but knows that is soccer career is at stake if he makes a move. His team captain and society have made it clear that coming out as bisexual could mean a failed career before it even takes off. Will Gabriel have to choose between being true to himself or being the next great soccer star?

This book was incredible! I absolutely loved the characters in this book, especially Kat and Perez. As a Latina myself, I am all to familiar with the stereotypes that exist in the Latin community. It's amazing to see characters so well written that overcome these stereotypes and become people that younger generations can look up to. I love to see the representation of people of color and members of the LGBTQ+ in sports romance. I will definitely be recommending this book to everyone I know.

first half of the book was infuriating but it got better, i. enjoyed it and it’s always nice to read books about latinos and this sport that is so important for us

Jonny Garza Villa’s Futbolista is a vibrant and heartfelt exploration of identity, acceptance, and the beautiful game.

Jonny’s been a must-read author for me since Ander & Santi Were Here. Canto Contigo sealed the deal, and now, Futbolista scored a major goal with my heart. The story follows Gabi, a talented college goalkeeper with dreams of playing for El Tri, as he navigates the complexities of his sexuality and the expectations of his community. With writing as smooth as a perfectly executed pass, the story unfolds with a natural rhythm, capturing the highs and lows of Gabi's journey with a mix of humor, vulnerability, and raw emotion.

Futbolista’s unflinching exploration of the intersection between identity and passion really hit home. Gabi's struggle to reconcile his love for soccer with his burgeoning bisexuality is both relatable and heartbreaking. As a queer youth, I often found myself wondering which parts of myself I'd have to sacrifice to achieve my dreams. Villa doesn't shy away from these difficult questions, offering a nuanced and empowering portrayal of Gabi's journey towards self-acceptance.

The supporting characters are just as captivating, each adding depth and complexity to the narrative. Vale, Gabi's tutor and love interest, is the kind of supportive and compassionate partner we all dream of. And Pérez, Gabi’s hilarious and slightly unhinged roommate and teammate, steals every scene he's in.

While Futbolista utilizes some familiar tropes, it executes them with finesse and authenticity. The opposites attract and classmates-to-lovers arcs are classics for a reason. Villa infuses them with a fresh perspective, exploring the complexities of navigating sexuality and cultural expectations within the world of college sports.

This book is a must-read for fans of accessible, well-written queer romance featuring Latine and POC characters. It's a story that will stay with you long after the final whistle, leaving you cheering for Gabi, Vale, and the power of love to conquer all.

Futbolista is an endearing new adult romance. Told through the singular POV of Gabriel Piña, as a reader you are with him on his journey of self-discovery. Like many 18 year olds, he thinks he knows exactly what and who he is. That there's not much more to him to discover. Of course his first semester at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi brings new challenges to the previously constructed sense of self. Gabi starts off the year excelling on the pitch, gaining attention from the media, surrounded by a caring and goofy group of soccer teammates/roommates, partying, and flirting with Leana (a fellow freshman at TAMUCC), and a burgeoning friendship with Vale (coincidentally, Leana's best friend). When Leana decides that they are better off as friends, Gabi and Vale continue their friendship, which slowly builds into attraction, flirtation, and eventually a sense of bisexual panic for Gabi. This is the heart of the Futbolista. As much as the action on the pitch is engaging, as a reader you are invested in Gabi's self-discovery and acceptance, and the relationship between him and Vale.

I loved how Jonny Garza Villa used "The Allegory of the Cave" as a plot device and overarching theme for this story. It tied in so well with Gabi's hesitancy and frustration with his Introduction to Philosophy class, the broad ideas explored therein, and how he must expand his thinking beyond his assumptions and explore internal reflections. Thankfully, he has Vale - a Philosophy major - to help him out there. Those tutoring conversations between Gabi and Vale serve to establish and deepen their emotional connection. Vale is such an empathetic and generous character - I loved him so much!

While Gabi's internal conflict surrounding his bisexuality, relationship with Vale, and being out are key to the story, there is also an external conflict with his soccer team captain, Barrera, and more broadly with machismo, homophobia, and compulsory heterosexuality. Jonny Garza Villa incorporates all of these with thoughtfulness and care, embracing a resolution buoyed by vulnerability, acceptance, and a vision for queer acceptance and joy. I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that the majority of these characters are Latinx (of Mexican heritage) and Futbolista is filled with beautiful cultural touchpoints and seamless incorporation of Spanish and Spanglish. Read this book for a moment of queer Latinx joy.