Chengdu Rongcheng Signs Israeli LB Yahav Gurfinkel from Hapoel Tel Aviv

Chengdu Rongcheng has secured the signing of 25-year-old Israeli left-back Yahav Gurfinkel from Hapoel Tel Aviv. Gurfinkel, who made 19 appearances and provided 2 assists for Hapoel Tel Aviv this season, brings a wealth of experience to the Chinese club. Notably, he has represented all youth Israel national teams from U16 to U21.

Gurfinkel’s journey in professional football includes stints with various clubs. He started his senior career at Maccabi Haifa from 2017 to 2021, making 3 appearances. During the 2017–2018 season, he had a loan spell at Hapoel Nazareth Illit, where he made 36 appearances and scored 4 goals. Subsequent loan spells included Hapoel Hadera (2018–2020, 50 apps) and Hapoel Haifa (2020–2021, 30 apps). His brief stint at IFK Norrköping in 2021–2022 saw him make 6 appearances before joining Hapoel Tel Aviv in 2022, where he featured in 46 games.

The transfer to Chengdu Rongcheng marks a new chapter for Gurfinkel, who expressed his connection to the values represented by Hapoel Tel Aviv. He thanked the Israeli club for the experiences and moments that will accompany him in his future endeavors. Gurfinkel also highlighted the strong bond with the fans, acknowledging them as the best in the country.

Hapoel Tel Aviv bid farewell to Gurfinkel with gratitude for his contributions. The left-back made 55 appearances during his one-and-a-half seasons with the club, showcasing his versatility with four assists. Known as a beloved player in the dressing room, Gurfinkel earned the respect of teammates, coaching staff, and management. His active participation in the club’s community activities since October 7, along with his visits to the injured and involvement in charitable events, underlined his immediate connection to the community and the red family.

Gurfinkel made it clear to the club’s leadership that he would be happy to return to the red ranks in the future. He received the club’s blessing to embark on a new phase in his career. In his farewell message, Gurfinkel expressed gratitude for the extraordinary year and a half at Hapoel Tel Aviv, emphasizing the special people and the belief and confidence the club instilled in him. He reiterated his strong connection to the club’s values, placing it above all else, and expressed confidence in the club’s continued success.