As we continue our series on LGBT trailblaisers in football for LGBTQ+ History Month, we focus on two out and proud Manchester United Womens’ First Team players, Leah Galton and Geyse.
Leah Galton
Leah Galton is a forward for Manchester United Women. Leah Galton began her football journey at a young age. She honed her skills at Leeds United’s Centre of Excellence before moving to the United States to play college soccer for Hofstra University. Her time in the U.S. was marked by impressive performances, earning her accolades such as the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) Player of the Year in 2015.
Galton returned to England to play professionally, signing with Manchester United Women in 2019 after the club’s reformation. As a forward, she quickly became known for her pace, technical ability, and goal-scoring prowess. Her contributions have been instrumental in Manchester United’s rise in the Women’s Super League (WSL), helping the team secure top finishes and establish themselves as a competitive force in English football.
Beyond her achievements in football, Leah Galton is an strong advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. As an openly gay athlete, she has used her visibility to challenge stereotypes and promote acceptance.
In interviews, Galton has highlighted the progress made in women’s football regarding inclusivity but also acknowledged the work still needed to combat discrimination and prejudice. She has participated in campaigns alongside Rainbow Devils to celebrate Manchester Pride on behalf of the Football Club, as well as initiatives aimed at fostering diversity and equality in sports, inspiring both fans and fellow athletes to embrace their authentic selves.
Geyse
Geyse Ferreira, commonly known as Geyse, is a Brazilian football star who plays as a forward for Manchester United Women and the Brazilian national team. Renowned for her dynamic playing style and goal-scoring ability, she has also become a prominent figure in the fight for LGBTQ+ visibility in sports. However, her journey has not been without challenges, and she has very publicly faced homophobia on social media for being out within the game.
Geyse began her football career in her home country, playing for clubs such as Centro Olímpico and Corinthians. Her talent quickly caught the attention of international scouts, leading her to join Madrid CFF in Spain in 2019. There, she established herself as one of the top forwards in the Spanish league, earning recognition for her speed, technical skills, and clinical finishing.
In 2022, Geyse made a high-profile move to Barcelona Femení, one of the most successful women’s football teams in the world. She contributed to the team’s dominance in both domestic and international competitions, including their UEFA Women’s Champions League triumphs. Geyse’s relentless work ethic and flair on the pitch have made her a fan favorite and a key player for both club and country.
Geyse is openly lesbian and has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in football. In a sport where many athletes still hesitate to come out due to fear of discrimination or backlash. She has used her platform to promote inclusivity and challenge the stigma surrounding LGBTQ+ individuals in sports.
However, her openness advocacy has not been without its challenges. In 2023, Geyse faced a homophobic backlash after sharing a picture of her girlfriend on social media. While many fans and fellow players celebrated her openness, the post also attracted criticism and homophobic comments from many so-called fans. The incident sparked a broader conversation about the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ athletes, particularly in more conservative regions and communities.
Despite the backlash, Geyse remained steadfast in her commitment to living authentically and advocating for change. She has continued to speak out about the importance of representation and the need for greater acceptance in football. Her courage has inspired many, particularly young LGBTQ+ athletes, to embrace their identities and pursue their dreams without fear. Geyse said on X: “Love, in all its forms, should be respected and celebrated, regardless of gender, orientation, or any other characteristic.”