Futbolista
by Jonny Garza Villa
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.
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Martial Peak Reviews
Jonny Garza Villa's Futbolista is a compelling exploration of identity, love, and ambition set against the vibrant backdrop of college football. This novel is a heartfelt journey that delves into the complexities of self-discovery, particularly within the confines of cultural expectations and personal aspirations. It is a story that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever questioned their place in the world or struggled to reconcile different facets of their identity.
At the heart of Futbolista is Gabriel Piña, a character who embodies the quintessential struggle of many young adults: the pressure to conform to societal norms while yearning to embrace one's true self. Gabriel, or Gabi, is introduced as a college freshman with a clear trajectory—he is a talented goalkeeper with dreams of playing for Liga MX or MLS. His identity is seemingly straightforward: he is a dedicated athlete and, as he believes, "definitely straight." However, the narrative quickly unravels this assumption as Gabi's interactions with Vale, a fellow student and unexpected tutor, begin to challenge his preconceived notions of who he is.
The relationship between Gabi and Vale is beautifully crafted, evolving from classmates to friends and eventually to lovers. This progression is both natural and poignant, capturing the essence of young love with all its uncertainties and exhilarations. Vale is portrayed as a supportive and compassionate figure, whose presence in Gabi's life becomes a catalyst for self-reflection and growth. The chemistry between the two characters is palpable, and their interactions are imbued with a sense of authenticity that makes their journey both relatable and engaging.
One of the novel's most significant themes is the exploration of queerness within the context of Mexican-American culture and the world of sports. Gabi's internal conflict is not just about his sexual orientation but also about the fear of how his identity might be perceived by his teammates and community. This fear is rooted in the harsh realities of homophobia in sports, a topic that Garza Villa handles with sensitivity and insight. The author does not shy away from depicting the challenges faced by queer athletes, making Gabi's journey towards self-acceptance all the more impactful.
Futbolista also excels in its portrayal of cultural identity. Gabi's Mexican heritage is woven seamlessly into the narrative, providing a rich cultural backdrop that enhances the story's depth. The novel celebrates Mexican-American culture, from the language and traditions to the familial bonds that shape Gabi's world. This cultural authenticity adds another layer to Gabi's struggle, as he navigates the expectations of his heritage alongside his personal desires.
In terms of character development, Garza Villa does an exceptional job of crafting multidimensional characters who are both flawed and endearing. Gabi is a protagonist who is easy to root for, despite his occasional missteps and moments of doubt. His journey is one of growth and self-discovery, and readers will find themselves invested in his quest to reconcile his dreams with his identity. Vale, too, is a well-rounded character whose intelligence and warmth make him an ideal counterpart to Gabi's more reserved nature.
The novel's pacing is well-balanced, with a narrative that unfolds organically over the course of Gabi's first semester in college. The author skillfully blends moments of introspection with scenes of action and romance, creating a dynamic and engaging reading experience. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, capturing the nuances of college life and the complexities of young adulthood.
Comparatively, Futbolista shares thematic similarities with works like Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston and Bend It Like Beckham. Like these stories, Garza Villa's novel explores the intersection of identity, culture, and love, while also addressing the challenges faced by queer individuals in traditionally heteronormative spaces. However, Futbolista stands out for its focus on Mexican-American culture and its nuanced portrayal of the pressures faced by young athletes.
Overall, Futbolista is a powerful and resonant novel that offers a fresh perspective on the coming-of-age genre. It is a story that will appeal to readers who appreciate heartfelt romances, cultural authenticity, and narratives that challenge societal norms. Jonny Garza Villa has crafted a tale that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, leaving readers with much to ponder about identity, love, and the courage to forge one's own path.
In conclusion, Futbolista is a must-read for anyone seeking a story that is as much about self-discovery as it is about the beautiful game of football. It is a testament to the power of love and the importance of embracing one's true self, regardless of the obstacles that may stand in the way.
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