Is Lionel Messi the Shortest Player in the World? Shortest Soccer Players Ranked

We often consider height as a critical factor in sports. Particularly in a sport like soccer, where the aerial battles and scoring headers play a substantial role. However, there have been exceptions to this theory, with Lionel Messi being the best example. The Argentine maestro has proven that size does not dictate talent, establishing himself as one of the greatest soccer players of all time.

It might lead to questioning whether Messi is the shortest soccer player. To answer that question, let us take a look at a list of the smallest active soccer players.

11. Lionel Messi- 5’7”( 170 cm)

To the surprise of many, Messi’s stature doesn’t even place him among the top ten shortest active players. Ranked at number 11, Messi stands at a height of 5 feet 7 inches. Despite his small size, the soccer fraternity cannot undermine his impact on the field.

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Messi’s exceptional skills and wizardry have enabled him to attain unparalleled success in the world of soccer. His recent triumph in the Leagues Cup with Inter Miami, where he scored ten goals to secure the championship, is a testament to his abilities.

10. Xerdan Shaqiri- 5’6″ (168 cm)

Sitting at number 10 on the list is another MLS star, Xherdan Shaqiri. Standing at 5 feet 6 inches tall, fans frequently related this Swiss international to Lionel Messi due to his small stature and remarkable dribbling abilities. With a keen eye for passing and laser-like vision on the pitch, Shaqiri embarked on his professional journey with Bayern Munich and presently showcases his talents as a member of the Chicago Fire FC. In fact, fans call him the Alpine Messi.

9. Alexis Sanchez- 5’6″ (168 cm)

Taking the ninth spot on the list is Alexis Sanchez, a player who stands at 5 feet 6 inches. Despite his compact size, Sanchez has proven himself to be an exceptional forward throughout his career. Having played for renowned clubs such as FC Barcelona, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Inter Milan, the 34-year-old continues to showcase his skills at French side Marseille.

8. Joe Allen- 5’6″ (168 cm)

Joe Allen, the Welsh midfielder, stands tall at 5 feet 6 inches. Throughout his career, Allen has displayed his talent at various levels of the English league pyramid. It includes the top tier Premier League with Liverpool and lower leagues for Ryan Reynolds’ Wrexham AFC, where he was loaned to in 2008. Currently, he is an active player in Swansea City, competing in the EFL Championship.

7. Mathieu Valbuena- 5’6″ (168 cm)

Mathieu Valbuena, the French winger, becomes another soccer star to join the 5 feet 6 inches height club. Recognized for his exceptional agility and quickness on the field, Valbuena has garnered numerous accolades throughout his career. His most remarkable achievements came during his tenure with Olympique Marseille (2006–2014), where he secured a Ligue 1 title, two French Super Cups, and three French League Cups. Remarkably, at 38, Valbuena continues to display his prowess on the pitch as he currently represents Cypriot club Apollon Limassol FC.

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6. Marco Verratti- 5’5″ (165 cm)

At number six, we have Lionel Messi’s former PSG teammate Marco Verratti. Despite his height of 5 feet 5 inches, Verratti has established himself as a highly skilled Italian midfielder. He has achieved splendid success at the club level with PSG, securing an extraordinary 30 trophies with the French giants. Additionally, he has made significant contributions to the national team, including winning the prestigious 2020 UEFA Euro tournament as part of the Italian squad.

5. Lorenzo Insigne- 5’3″ (163 cm)

Lorenzo Insigne, a player of modest stature at 5 feet 3 inches, has secured the fifth position on the rankings. Renowned for his deadly striking abilities, Insigne has consistently contributed to Napoli’s success with an astounding tally of 122 goals. As the second-highest goalscorer in Napoli history, he has left an indelible mark on the club. Regrettably, in 2022, Insigne departed Napoli after an illustrious career and currently plies his trade for Toronto FC in Major League Soccer (MLS).

4. Maximiliano Moralez- 5’3″ (163 cm)

Maximiliano Moralez, another MLS player, secures the fourth spot on the list. Despite his height of 5 feet 3 inches, this gifted player from Argentina has proven to be a formidable force on the field. Nowadays, representing New York City FC, Moralez is an attacking midfielder known for his exceptional technical ability and creativity. Throughout his career, he has showcased his skills in various clubs across different countries, including FC Moscow in Russia, Atalanta in Italy, Club León in Mexico, and now New York City FC in America.

3. Daniel Villalva- 5’1″ (155 cm)

Another Argentine takes the third place, and it is 31-year-old Daniel Villalva. Standing at a height of only 5 feet 1 inch, he presently plays for Ferro Carril Oeste, a second-division Argentine team. Although possessing remarkable dribbling talents, Villalva never had the opportunity to showcase his skills in Europe.

2. Elton Jose Xavier Gomes- 5’1″ (155 cm)

Elton Jose Xavier Gomes, standing at a height of 5 feet 1 inch, holds the esteemed second position on the list. This talented Brazilian midfielder is renowned for his exceptional speed and remarkable dribbling abilities. He rose to prominence during his tenure with Cristiano Ronaldo‘s Al-Nassr, where he played from 2007 to 2009. Right now, Elton Jose Xavier Gomes continues to showcase his mastery, as he represents Al Qadsiah FC, another prominent Saudi Arabian club.

1. Marcin Garuch- 5′ (153 cm)

Finally, ranked as the shortest active soccer player is Marcin Garuch, measuring at just 5 feet. Polish by birth, throughout his career, he has exclusively played in Polish leagues. Nowadays, the 34-year-old serves as a midfielder for Miedź Legnica in the Polish second division.

These are all the players who make the list of the shortest soccer players. While Lionel Messi may not be the shortest player, he definitely is the most prominent name on the list. Which star’s height surprised you the most? Let us know in the comments.

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