Football is a game predominantly demanding strength, speed, and agility. While being tall can offer advantages in certain roles, there are players who have shown that stature isn’t everything. This article highlights those who may be shorter in height but are giants in their impact on the field. Continue with us as we explore the world’s shortest footballers who are making waves in 2024. Here’s a rundown of the 10 most diminutive players globally, sorted by their height.
1. Marcin Garuch – 1.54 meters
Poland’s Garuch, relatively unknown, stands as one of the tiniest active players in global football. He’s considered the shortest professional footballer in Europe. At merely 1.54 meters (5 feet 0.63 inches), this player in Poland’s second division showcases exceptional technical prowess and superior ball handling.
2. Elton Jose Xavier Gomes – 1.54 meters
Tied in stature, the Brazilian midfielder is among the world’s shortest athletes in the sport. Known for his rapid pace and phenomenal dribbling, Elton has made a name with Saudi Arabian teams Al-Nassr, Al-Hamriyah, and Al-Fateh.
3. Daniel Villalva – 1.55 meters
This Argentine winger, primarily playing in Argentina and Mexico, stands at 1.55 meters. A talented forward, he made history in 2009 as River Plate’s youngest ever player. He is now with Ferro Carril Oeste.
4. Saliu Popoola – 1.57 meters
Nigerian Saliu Popoola, playing as a midfielder for Moroccan team Wydad Fès, is one of Africa’s shortest footballers. The Olympic bronze medalist from 2016 was ranked the third shortest globally in 2015.
5. Madson Formagini Caridade – 1.57 meters
Brazilian veteran Madson, with a height of 1.57 m (5 ft 2 inches), has played for several clubs, starting with Vasco de Gama. Now 36, he’s an attacking midfielder known for his agility and set-piece skills, currently playing for Fortaleza in Brazil.
6. Yeferson Soteldo – 1.59 meters
Yeferson Soteldo, from Venezuela, plays mainly as a left winger but can adapt to various attacking roles. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, on June 30, 1997, Soteldo’s height is 159 cm (5’3”), making him one of the professional scene’s shortest footballers. He is currently on loan at Gremio from Santos.
7. Maximiliano Moralez – 1.60 meters
The attacking midfielder now plays for Racing in the Argentine Primera División and has appeared once for Argentina. Standing at 1.60 meters, he has previously played for Atalanta in Serie A and New York City FC in MLS. Moralez is affectionately called frasquito, translating to “little flask.”
8. Lorenzo Insigne – 1.63 meters
Ex-captain of SSC Napoli, Insigne is among the game’s shortest at 1.63 meters (5 feet 4.173 inches). Despite his stature, Insigne’s aggressive dribbling made him stand out in the 2020 Euros. The 34-year-old’s powerful shots were crucial for Italy, helping them secure their second Euro title. He currently plays for Toronto FC in the MLS. Despite advancing in age, he remains among MLS’s top talents.
9. Marco Verratti – 1.65 meters
The former Paris Saint Germain midfielder was instrumental in Italy’s Euro 2020 victory. At 1.65 meters tall (5 feet 4.961 inches), he’s considered one of the premier midfielders currently.
10. Mathieu Valbuena – 1.67 meters
This former French international may lack in height, standing at 1.67 meters (or 5 feet 5.748 inches), but not in skill. His dribbling and creative play have made him a valuable offensive player. At 36, he’s playing for Olympiacos in Greece. Valbuena is also known for being embroiled in a controversy involving former France teammate Karim Benzema.
