Average Soccer Player Height – Ideal Height of Soccer Player

In soccer, people of different heights stand next to each other. It’s even more exciting because each has strengths and weaknesses. Some of the best players are undersized and some are tall. The tall players have some advantages and short players also have some advantages in their positions.

The average height of a male soccer player is between 5 feet 7 inches (173 cm) to 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm). The short players mostly play in the forward line or in midfield. The heights of goalkeepers are slightly larger than the normal players.

The average height of a female soccer player is between 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) to 5 feet 7 inches (172cm). Similar to their male counterparts, female soccer players tend to be shorter generally, though this can vary depending on the position and level of play.

Average Soccer Player Height in each position

Different heights of players are needed for different positions. Here are the average soccer players’ heights in each position.

Average Height Of Players	Positions of players
6 feet 2 inches (188 cm)	Goalkeepers
6 feet (183 cm)	Defenders
5 feet 11 inches (180cm)	Midfielders
5 feet 11 inches (180cm) Or 5 feet 7 inches (173 cm)	Forwards

Does Height matter in soccer?

Different players in soccer play in different positions. Height matters in soccer but it depends on the position of the player. When we talk about the goalkeeper and defenders they need more height as compared to midfielders and defenders. The height of the goalkeeper helps to reach the ball and cover the whole goal.

The height of the defender increases the defender’s ability to head the ball. Thus, it is true that height matters in soccer. But what role you play will decide if it matters to you or not.

the ideal height of a soccer player

A soccer player should be between five feet two and six feet two inches tall. There are no height-based classifications for soccer players. Individuals with varying statures execute their parts with ease. For example, Messi is one of the most well-known soccer players despite being a short player.

Ronaldo is one of the best players even if he is taller. Above all, you want a player tall enough to compete with force and speed in airborne duels.

Advantages for tall players in soccer

Here are some advantages of being a tall player in soccer.

Heading Mastery:

Tall players are great at aerial duels and have a big edge in both offensive and defensive set pieces. Because they can reach higher, they can better control and direct the ball, which helps create scoring chances and makes the defense stronger.

Goalkeeper’s Reach:

Tall goalkeepers possess an extended reach, making it challenging for opponents to find the back of the net. Covering a larger portion of the goal, they can make crucial saves, especially against shots aimed at the top corners.

Defensive Strength:

Tall defenders have a natural ability to clear crosses and make interceptions due to their extended reach.

Midfield Dominance:

Tall midfielders have an advantage in winning aerial duels, providing an additional layer of control in the center of the pitch.

Physical Presence:

The physical presence of tall players can intimidate opponents, affecting their decision-making and performance. This psychological advantage can influence the course of a game.

See Also: 3-5-2 Formation

Advantages for short players in soccer

Here are some advantages of being a short player in soccer.

Agility and Quickness:

Short players tend to have lower centers of gravity, enhancing their agility. This allows for quick changes in direction, making them elusive and challenging for taller opponents to defend.

Low Center of Gravity:

A lower center of gravity provides short players with enhanced balance. This proves invaluable when dribbling through tight spaces, making them adept at navigating crowded areas on the field.

Speed and Acceleration:

Shorter players often exhibit explosive acceleration, allowing them to outpace defenders over short distances.

Low Center of Tackling:

Shorter players can execute well-timed, low tackles with precision. Their agility and quick reactions make it challenging for taller opponents to evade tackles, leading to ball recoveries.

Energy Conservation:

Short players often expend less energy due to their efficient movement patterns. This stamina conservation becomes a valuable asset during the later stages of a match.

Positions of a tall player in soccer

The majority of tall soccer players are strikers or center defenders. It’s because they compete against one another regularly. Tall defenders are capable of competing in any situation and are unlikely to lose aerial duels.

See Also: Best Formations For 11v11 Soccer

Positions of a short player in soccer

The same is true for shorter games; they each have their own place. There are short soccer players in wide spots on the field. Most of the time, teams have smaller wingers and outside backs.

How tall are the best footballers in the world

This table will show you some of the best footballers with their heights and positions.

Player Name	Height	Position
Cristiano Ronaldo	6 feet 2 inches	Forward
Lionel Messi	5 feet and 7 inches	Forward
Sergio Ramos	6 feet	Defender
Virgil van Dijk	6 feet 4 inches	Defender
Neymar Jr	5 feet 9 inches	Forward
Kylian Mbappé	5 feet 10 inches	Forward
Paul Labile Pogba	6 feet 3 inches	Midfielder
Luka Modrić	5 feet 8 inches	Midfielder
Marcelo	5 feet 8 inches	Defender(Rb)
Bellingham	6 feet 1 inch	Forward

See Also: 4-1-4-1 Formation

FAQs

conclusion

As we have discussed previously, the average height of a player can be an important factor for some players. I believe that soccer isn’t just about tall players. Soccer is a game that can be played by anyone no matter their height. Short players can be midfielders and strikers, while tall players can be defenders and goalkeepers.