Series: Goal

While growing up on the tough streets of Los Angeles, Santiago's greatest joy is playing soccer. So it is a dream come true when a British scout sees him playing in the park and offers him a trial with one of England's top Premiership clubs. Determined to succeed, Santiago leaves behind his struggling family and his modest home, and flies halfway around the world to give it his best shot.

But it's not smooth sailing when Santiago arrives in northern England. Team practices are intense, and in this place where people live and breathe the sport, many seem eager to find fault with the new Latino player from L.A. The pressure even spurs Santiago to keep a secret that could sabotage his performance. There is no doubt that Santiago has skill, flair, and dedication. But does he have the stamina he will need for the English game?

Based on the action-packed movie, Goal! is a gripping tale of trial and tribulation set against the backdrop of the world's most popular and exciting sport.

Goal! 2

by Robert Rigby

Published 23 January 2007

Santiago has made his mark in the UK Premier league as a magic midfielder with Newcastle United. But European football now beckons and he finds himself playing alongside stars such as Beckham, Raul and Zidane for Real Madrid. But playing in the UEFA Champions League can bring new pressures - new challenges: fighting to keep his place in the squad, trying to resist the temptations surrounding a successful footballer, aiming to maintain his relationship with his girlfriend back home. Sometimes dreams can turn sour . . .

Goal! 3

by Robert Rigby

Published 5 March 2009

Santiago Munez is back in England and playing in the Premiership once again. He's also been selected for the World Cup and is playing on the form of his life. But things in his personal life are more complicated . . .

When disaster strikes during an international warm-up match and Santi is injured, it looks like his dream of playing in the greatest competition of them all is over. Can he prove himself physically and mentally match-fit in time for the finals . . . ?