The 10 Shortest Soccer Players Of All Time

Soccer is a game where skill, agility, and determination often outweigh physical attributes like height. Many of the sport’s most memorable players have been among the shortest, using their low center of gravity and exceptional ball control to their advantage. In this article, we celebrate the ten shortest soccer players of all time, arranged from the tallest to the shortest. While Lionel Messi is not included in the main list, his position is acknowledged to highlight his extraordinary impact on the game.

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Honorable Mention: Lionel Messi (5’7″ / 170 cm)

Though not included in the top ten shortest players, Lionel Messi stands at 5’7″ (170 cm) and is often celebrated for his incredible skills and achievements. Widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time, Messi’s low center of gravity and unparalleled dribbling ability have made him a formidable force on the field. His numerous Ballon d’Or titles and a FIFA World Cup victory with Argentina underscore his legendary status.

1. Diego Maradona (5’5″ / 165 cm)

Diego Maradona, one of the most iconic figures in soccer history, stood at 5’5″ (165 cm). Despite his height, Maradona’s extraordinary talent, vision, and leadership on the field led Argentina to victory in the 1986 World Cup. His famous “Hand of God” goal and the stunning “Goal of the Century” remain unforgettable moments in the sport’s history.

2. Rui Barros (5’5″ / 165 cm)

Portuguese midfielder Rui Barros, standing at 5’5″ (165 cm), made a significant impact during his career in the late 1980s and 1990s. Known for his speed and technical ability, Barros played for top clubs such as FC Porto and Juventus. His agility and quickness allowed him to maneuver through defenses and create scoring opportunities.

3. Maximiliano Moralez (5’3″ / 160 cm)

Maximiliano Moralez, also known as Maxi Moralez, is an Argentine attacking midfielder who stands at 5’3″ (160 cm). Moralez has played for clubs in Argentina, Italy, and Major League Soccer in the United States. His creativity and ability to deliver key passes have made him a valuable player for every team he has joined.

4. Madson Formagini Caridade (5’3″ / 160 cm)

Madson Formagini Caridade, commonly known as Madson, is a Brazilian midfielder standing at 5’3″ (160 cm). Madson’s career has included stints with several Brazilian clubs, where his quickness and technical ability have earned him recognition. His agility on the field compensates for his lack of height.

5. Joãozinho (5’3″ / 160 cm)

Joãozinho, a Brazilian winger, also stands at 5’3″ (160 cm). Known for his speed and dribbling prowess, Joãozinho has played for various clubs in Brazil and Europe. His ability to take on defenders and create scoring opportunities has made him a standout player throughout his career.

6. Daniel Villalva (5’3″ / 160 cm)

Daniel Villalva, an Argentine forward, stands at just 5’3″ (160 cm). Despite his height, Villalva has shown great promise and skill on the field. He began his career with River Plate and has played for various clubs in Argentina and Mexico. His low center of gravity and rapid acceleration make him a challenging opponent for defenders.

7. Élton José Xavier Gomes (5’3″ / 160 cm)

Élton José Xavier Gomes, commonly known as Élton, is a Brazilian attacking midfielder who has played for various clubs around the world. Standing at just 5’3″ (160 cm), his diminutive stature does not hinder his ability to deliver precise passes and dazzling dribbles. Élton’s career has seen him play in leagues across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

8. Levi Porter (5’3″ / 160 cm)

Levi Porter, an English midfielder, stands at 5’3″ (160 cm). Porter began his career with Leicester City and has played for several lower league clubs in England. His speed and dribbling skills have always been his standout qualities, allowing him to compete effectively despite his short stature.

9. Jafal Rashed Al-Kuwari (5’1″ / 155 cm)

Jafal Rashed Al-Kuwari, a Qatari midfielder, stands at 5’1″ (155 cm), making him one of the shortest professional soccer players ever. Despite his height, Al-Kuwari enjoyed a successful career, primarily with Al-Sadd Sports Club. His vision and passing accuracy were key attributes that contributed to his team’s success.

10. Marcin Garuch (5’1″ / 155 cm)

Marcin Garuch, a Polish midfielder, stands at just 5’1″ (155 cm), making him one of the shortest players in professional soccer. Garuch has played primarily in Poland’s lower leagues, where his technical skills and determination have earned him a loyal following. His story is a testament to the idea that height is no barrier to success in soccer.

Simon Bloch Jørgensen, standing at an impressive 6 feet 11 inches (210 cm), holds the title of the tallest soccer player in history. This Danish goalkeeper’s remarkable height gives him a significant advantage in reaching high shots and dominating the penalty area. His towering presence is not only a physical attribute but also a psychological edge over opponents.

To learn more about Simon Bloch Jørgensen and see the complete list of the 10 tallest soccer players in history, check out “The 10 Tallest Soccer Players of All Time״.

Conclusion

These ten players demonstrate that height is not the sole determinant of success in soccer. Their achievements and contributions to the game serve as inspiration to players of all sizes, proving that talent, hard work, and passion can overcome any physical limitations.

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