Josh Cavallo, who made historical past in 2021 when he turned the primary man to return out as homosexual whereas enjoying elite soccer, has accused his former membership Adelaide United of being homophobic.
Cavallo, 26, left Adelaide after failing to make a single look within the 2024/25 marketing campaign and now performs within the UK with semi-professional aspect Stamford AFC.
In an Instagram submit, the 26-year-old Australian stated: “It is taken me some time to digest how my time at Adelaide United ended, however I believe the followers deserve honesty.
“Leaving the membership had nothing to do with soccer. Choices had been made by folks in energy that blocked my alternatives, not due to my expertise, however due to who I select to love.
“It turned clear that I wasn’t allowed on the pitch due to politics. It is exhausting to swallow when I realised my very own membership was homophobic.
“I used to be indignant as a result of folks thought I used to be sidelined primarily based on accidents, when in actuality, it was inner homophobia that saved me on the bench.”
Adelaide United have rejected Cavallo’s allegations.
The assertion from the membership learn: “Adelaide United is conscious of an announcement printed on social media this morning by former participant Josh Cavallo.
“The membership is extraordinarily upset by the claims made and categorically rejects the allegations, together with any suggestion that Adelaide United is homophobic. All on-field selections regarding staff choice are made solely on footballing grounds.
Josh Cavallo left Adelaide United in 2025 after not making an look within the 2024/25 season
“Adelaide United has at all times been dedicated to fostering an inclusive atmosphere for gamers, workers and supporters and we stay pleased with our ongoing work to advertise inclusion throughout soccer.
“Strengthening inclusivity should stay an ongoing focus for the sport, and the membership seems to be ahead to internet hosting the fourth annual Satisfaction Cup this weekend towards Melbourne Victory.
“The membership is not going to be making any additional remark right now.”
Josh Cavallo made historical past after changing into the primary overtly homosexual male footballer after popping out in 2021
The footballer ended his submit by saying: “This contemporary begin within the UK has helped me breathe once more and I hope I can fall again in love with the game which means all the things to me.
“Regardless of the best way it ended behind the scenes, I refuse to let it wreck my connection to this metropolis.
“Adelaide is the place I discovered my wings.
“To the followers and supporters: thanks to your ardour and backing. You deserve honesty and success. You had been unbelievable to play in entrance of. Thanks.”
Cavallo’s popping out paved the best way for different LGBT+ footballers and athletes, resembling Jake Daniels, who in 2022 turned the primary skilled male participant in Britain to return out as homosexual since Justin Fashanu in 1990.
