Football is a sport that thrives on strength, speed, and agility. While height can provide an advantage in certain positions, there are many players who prove that stature isn’t everything. In this article, we explore the shortest footballers in the world in 2024—players who have defied the odds and shown that skill, talent, and determination matter far more than height.
Here are the 15 shortest football players actively competing in 2024:
1. Marcin Garuch – 1.54 metres
Hailing from Poland, Marcin Garuch is one of the shortest professional footballers in Europe, standing at just 1.54 metres (5 feet 0.63 inches). Despite his size, the Polish second-division player is known for his excellent technical skills and superb ball control.
2. Elton Jose Xavier Gomes – 1.54 metres
Brazilian midfielder Elton Gomes, measuring only 1.54 metres tall, has built his reputation with his pace and exceptional dribbling. He played for various clubs, including Al-Nassr and Al-Fateh in Saudi Arabia.
3. Daniel Villalva – 1.55 metres
Standing at 1.55 metres, Argentine winger Daniel Villalva made history as the youngest player ever to feature for River Plate in 2009. Currently playing for Atlético La Paz, Villalva’s skill and tenacity make him a standout despite his height.
4. Saliu Popoola – 1.57 metres
Saliu Popoola, a Nigerian midfielder for Moroccan club Wydad Fès, stands at 1.57 metres. A 2016 Olympic bronze medallist, Popoola remains one of the shortest footballers in Africa, using his agility to excel in midfield battles.
5. Madson Formagini Caridade – 1.57 metres
Veteran Brazilian footballer Madson, standing at 1.57 metres, is a set-piece specialist with an impressive career spanning clubs like Vasco da Gama and Santos. Currently at Athletico Paranaense, he continues to make an impact on the pitch.
6. Yeferson Soteldo – 1.59 metres
Venezuelan winger Yeferson Soteldo, at 1.59 metres (5 feet 3 inches), is known for his versatility and creative play. Currently playing for Grêmio on loan from Santos, Soteldo’s low centre of gravity enhances his dribbling and attacking skills.
7. Maximiliano Moralez – 1.60 metres
Nicknamed Frasquito (“little flask”), Maximiliano Moralez stands at 1.60 metres. The Argentine attacking midfielder, who has played for clubs like Atalanta and New York City FC, now plies his trade with Racing in Argentina’s Primera División.
8. Lorenzo Insigne – 1.63 metres
Former Napoli captain Lorenzo Insigne is just 1.63 metres tall (5 feet 4 inches), but his skill and creativity are unparalleled. A key figure in Italy’s 2020 Euros victory, Insigne now plays for Toronto FC in the MLS.
9. Tariq Lamptey – 1.63 metres
Brighton & Hove Albion’s Tariq Lamptey is the Premier League’s shortest player at 1.63 metres. Despite his height, Lamptey’s speed, agility, and technical abilities make him an invaluable defender.
10. Ryan Fraser – 1.63 metres
Ryan Fraser, a 1.63-metre winger for Southampton, is known for his dynamic playing style and muscular build. His agility and resilience have made him a significant asset in the Premier League.
11. Marco Verratti – 1.65 metres
Italian midfield maestro Marco Verratti, at 1.65 metres, is recognised as one of the world’s best midfielders. A vital part of Italy’s Euro 2020-winning team, Verratti is celebrated for his composure and technical skills.
12. Mathieu Valbuena – 1.67 metres
French footballer Mathieu Valbuena, standing at 1.67 metres, has built his reputation on creativity and flair. Currently playing for Athens Kallithea FC, he remains a valuable asset in attack despite his small frame.
13. Joe Allen – 1.68 metres
Welsh midfielder Joe Allen, measuring 1.68 metres, uses his balance and ball control to outshine taller opponents. Now with Swansea City, Allen remains a key figure in his club’s midfield.
14. Alexis Sánchez – 1.68 metres
At 1.68 metres, Alexis Sánchez has proven himself as one of the most prolific forwards of his generation. The former Barcelona and Arsenal star currently plays for Udinese Calcio, continuing to shine on the big stage.
15. Xherdan Shaqiri – 1.69 metres
Swiss playmaker Xherdan Shaqiri, nicknamed the “Swiss pocket rocket,” stands at 1.69 metres. Renowned for his power and dribbling ability, Shaqiri plays for FC Basel, where he remains a key player.
