Soccer — now there’s a sport where short guys can really shine!

Yes, the average pro footballer still clocks in at about six feet tall (and goalies even taller than that), but that’s nothing compared to the giants you’ll find in basketball, American football, hockey and even on the baseball diamond.

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While size and physicality are valuable in almost every sport, no contest rewards agility, toughness and technical skills quite like soccer does. Which makes it the perfect outlet for exceptional short athletes.

The 15 Shortest Soccer Players of All Time

Here’s the list…

1. Élton José Xavier Gomes

Height: 5’1”

A midfielder with an absolutely minuscule frame, you won’t find many shorter pro athletes than Élton who aren’t jockeys!

 

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Known as an outstanding dribbler capable of slicing through even the toughest defenses, Élton has carved out a lengthy and ongoing career as a dynamic scorer. He even helped Saudi Arabian club Al-Fateh capture its first ever title in 2013.

Though he hasn’t reached levels of fame that reach beyond the soccer community, fans of the game know all about Élton’s heart and talent.

2. Daniel Alberto Villalva Barrios

Height: 5’1”

Locked in a heated battle with Élton for the shortest footballer of his generation is Villalva, the 5’1” sparkplug who currently plays forward for Veracruz.

 

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Villalva was born to play soccer, getting his start on a high-level youth team at just the age of 10. Before he even turned 17, he made his pro debut with the River Plate football club. He scored his first pro goal just a few months later.