Israeli Goalkeeper Yoav Rivk Signs with Juventus Youth Team at 16

Yoav Rivk, a 16-year-old Israeli goalkeeper, officially signed with Juventus on July 3, 2026, joining the club's youth academy for the upcoming season. Juventus, despite facing some challenges, remains one of Italy's top football clubs. Rivk began his football journey in the youth system of Hapoel Tel Aviv before moving to Maccabi Tel Aviv and then to Maccabi Petah Tikva in the 2024/25 season. Last season, playing for Maccabi Petah Tikva's under-16 team, he notably scored a penalty in a State Cup quarterfinal shootout against Hapoel Tel Aviv, although his team eventually lost.

Rivk has also represented Israel's youth national team, keeping a clean sheet against Slovenia and participating in a UEFA tournament against Croatia and Paraguay. His performances attracted scouts, likely contributing to his move to Juventus. Known for his ball distribution skills, Rivk helped initiate plays that led to goals, such as a key assist in a match against Maccabi Tel Aviv. His team conceded only 30 goals last season, the second-best defensive record in the league.

In Italy, there is speculation that Rivk might advance quickly, potentially joining the under-17 squad coached by Claudio Caruso. Italian journalist Nicolo Cordiano praised him, saying he had heard very positive things about Rivk. While other Israeli talents have moved to Italian clubs, Rivk is notable as a goalkeeper, a position less represented among Israeli players abroad.

Though still very young and with a long road ahead before reaching senior professional status, Rivk joins a club known for developing goalkeepers like Emil Audero and Franco Israel, who have achieved significant success in Italy and beyond. His signing marks a promising step in his football career.