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By ANDREW PRENTICE FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA Published: 10: 35 AEST, 8 July 2025 | Updated: 10: 42 AEST, 8 July 2025 3 View comments A-League star Josh Cavallo has revealed he is relocating to the United Kingdom with his fiancé - but his sporting future remains unknown. Cavallo, 25, rose to international prominence in 2021 when he became the first openly gay male footballer actively playing in a top-flight league. At the time, the Adelaide United defender stated he didn't want to feel ashamed about his sexuality and was exhausted after trying to live a 'double life'. Taking to Instagram on Monday, Cavallo told his 1. 1 million followers he is looking forward to living in England. 'It's not goodbye forever but now, it's time to leave the nest with my fiancé by my side, ' his post began. 'Football and life have taken me further than I ever imagined, and new opportunities have led to a new life waiting for us across the world. A-League star Josh Cavallo (pictured left with fiancé Leighton Morrell) has revealed he is relocating to the United Kingdom - but his sporting future remains unknown Cavallo, 25, rose to international prominence in 2021 when he opened up about his sexuality Taking to Instagram on Monday, Cavallo (pictured right with Morrell) told his 1. 1 million Instagram followers he is looking forward to living in England 'I never imagined that living my truth would unlock doors from the pitch to every corner of my personal life. 'Whether you've followed my journey from the beginning or found strength in it along the way, your presence has meant more than words can ever say. 'Especially to the LGBTQ+ community, you are the reason I never gave up. 'You helped me see that I wasn't alone and that none of us are. For the boy who once looked in the mirror and questioned why he was different, this is proof that you can find your place in this world. ' The first professional player to come out while still playing was Britain's Justin Fashanu in 1990, but he never found acceptance in the game and tragically took his own life in 1998. Once he made his announcement, Cavallo received support on social media from the likes of Matildas skipper Sam Kerr, ex-Barcelona defender Gerard Piqué and former England striker Gary Lineker. He also labelled the support from Adelaide United teammates and officials 'immense', before adding he wanted to be a positive role model for gay footballers. 'It's OK to be gay and play football - I want to show all the other people who are struggling and are scared, ' Cavallo said. The left back came through the youth ranks at Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City before securing an A-League move to Western United in 2019. He played 10 matches for the Green and Black before signing a short contract with Adelaide United in 2021. In May, Adelaide United confirmed Cavallo was departing the club, labelling their former star a 'symbol of courage, authenticity and positive change. ' Daily Mail Australia reached out to Cavallo and Wax - who manage the athlete - regarding any potential football opportunities abroad.
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