Sydney FC have signed highly-rated youngster Rhys Youlley as they continue to build towards the 2025-26 Isuzu UTE A-League season.
Youlley joins the Sky Blues on a three-year deal following two years with Belgian Pro League outfit Westerlo – the home of Socceroo Jordy Bos.
Described as one of “Australia’s brightest midfield talents”, the 20-year-old midfielder made five top-flight appearances for Westerlo this season, and six across all competitions having arrived from Macarthur Bulls at the start of 2023-24.
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“I’m really excited about what’s going on here and I can’t wait to be a part of the best team in the A-League,” said Youlley, who came through Sydney FC’s academy and played alongside Sky Blues star Adrian Segecic in the Under 13s and 14s.
“I’ve heard a lot of good things from the likes of Sega who I was with in the Sydney FC under 13’s, and I know just how much everyone wants to win here.
“I think the project that [Ufuk Talay] explained to me was really good and where the club is headed.”
He added: “My overseas experience really helped me grow on and off the pitch, and I’ve become a lot more mature and a lot better player.
“I think I’m really focused now and I’ve got goals that I really want to achieve.”
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Youlley’s arrival continues Sydney’s preparations for next season, having narrowly missed out on the 2024-25 Finals Series following an historic run to the AFC Champions League Two semi-finals.
Ufuk Talay’s Sydney have already re-signed Alex Grant and handed Gus Hoefsloot his first professional deal.
“Rhys is technically very good, he’s a very smart footballer with a high football IQ,” Talay said.
“He has a good passing range, is a real threat at set pieces, and I believe he can grow into a complete central midfielder.
“We are building a team with a clear identity and he fits perfectly into that vision.”
