Israeli Teen Goalkeeper Yoav Rivk Signs with Juventus Youth Team

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. Rivk began his football journey in the youth system of Hapoel Tel Aviv before moving to Maccabi Tel Aviv and later to Maccabi Petah Tikva in the 2024/25 season. Last season, he played in the under-16 team, notably scoring a penalty in a State Cup quarterfinal shootout against Hapoel Tel Aviv, despite his team’s eventual loss.

Rivk has also represented Israel’s youth national team, keeping a clean sheet against Slovenia and participating in matches against Croatia, where the team drew 1-1 but lost on penalties. His performances attracted scouts during a UEFA official tournament featuring teams from Slovenia, Paraguay, and Croatia, likely contributing to his move to Italy.

Known for his ball distribution skills, Rivk played a key role in a goal against Maccabi Tel Aviv, initiating the play that led to a score. His team conceded 30 goals last season, the second-lowest in the league, with 26 goals allowed in matches he played. Italian reports suggest Rivk might skip an age group and join the under-17 squad coached by Claudio Caruso.

Italian journalist Nicolo Cordiano praised Rivk, saying he had heard very good things about him. While Rivk is not the first Israeli talent to move to Italy, others like Sof Podgoran, Nitai Grace, and Lior Kassa have joined Italian clubs, he is the first Israeli goalkeeper to do so. Although it is too early to predict his future impact, Rivk has joined a club known for developing goalkeepers, such as Emil Audero and Franco Israel, who have had successful careers in Italy and beyond.

Rivk recently turned 16, and it may take years before he becomes a significant player at the senior level, but his move to Juventus marks an important step in his development.