Top 10 Tallest Football Players In The World

Football is a sport that showcases a diverse range of athletes, each possessing unique attributes that contribute to the game’s excitement. Among these attributes, height plays a crucial role, allowing players to dominate in various aspects of the game. In this article, we will explore the top 10 tallest football players in the world, highlighting their contributions to the sport and their impact on the field.

How tall is the average footballer?

The average height of a male footballer is around 5’7″ (173 cm) to 5’8″ (174 cm). However, there is a significant variation in height between different positions. Goalkeepers are typically the tallest players, with an average height of 6’1″ (185 cm), while forwards are the shortest, with an average height of 5’9″ (175 cm).

Here is the average height of footballers by position:

• Goalkeeper: 6’1″ (185 cm)
• Defender: 5’11″ (180 cm)
• Midfielder: 5’9″ (175 cm)
• Forward: 5’8″ (174 cm)

It is important to note that these are just averages and there are many players who do not fit this mold. For example, Lionel Messi is only 5’7″ (170 cm) tall, but he is one of the greatest footballers of all time.

Ultimately, height is just one factor that determines a player’s success in football. Other factors, such as speed, agility, and skill, are also important.

Top 10 Tallest Football Players In The World

Here is a list of the top 10 tallest football players in the world:

1. Kristof van Hout

Holding the title for the tallest football player is Kristof van Hout, a Belgian goalkeeper who stands at an astounding 6 feet 10 inches (208 cm). Van Hout has played for various clubs throughout his career, demonstrating his exceptional reach and agility despite his towering height.

2. Simon Bloch Jørgensen

Standing at 6 feet 10 inches (208 cm), Danish defender Simon Bloch Jørgensen is another player who makes it to our list. His imposing presence in defense and ability to win aerial duels make him a valuable asset for his team.

3. Asmir Begović

Asmir Begović, a Bosnian goalkeeper, is 6 feet 6 inches (201 cm) tall. While not the tallest on our list, his height certainly gives him an advantage when it comes to making those crucial saves, reaching for shots that might otherwise be out of reach.

4. Costel Pantilimon

Romanian goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon matches Begović’s height of 6 feet 6 inches (201 cm). Pantilimon has showcased his shot-stopping abilities in various leagues, earning a reputation as a reliable last line of defense.

5. Yang Changpeng

Hailing from China, Yang Changpeng stands at 6 feet 5 inches (196 cm). This towering forward has made a mark not only in Chinese football but also internationally, using his height to his advantage in aerial battles and goal-scoring opportunities.

6. Vanja Iveša

Croatian goalkeeper Vanja Iveša shares Yang Changpeng’s height of 6 feet 5 inches (196 cm). Iveša’s commanding presence in the penalty area often puts strikers under pressure, making it challenging for them to find the back of the net.

7. Peter Crouch

The English striker Peter Crouch may have retired, but his legacy lives on. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches (201 cm), Crouch was known for his unique playing style and ability to score goals with his head, thanks to his exceptional height.

8. Stefan Maierhofer

Austrian forward Stefan Maierhofer also reaches a height of 6 feet 7 inches (201 cm). His towering figure has caused problems for defenders across various leagues, and he’s recognized for his contributions to his teams’ attacking plays.

9. Lacina Traoré

Ivorian forward Lacina Traoré stands tall at 6 feet 8 inches (203 cm). His height gives him an advantage in winning aerial duels, and he has showcased his skills in multiple clubs and national teams.

10. Kristjan Þórðarson

Rounding off our list is Icelandic defender Kristjan Þórðarson, who stands at 6 feet 8 inches (203 cm). His imposing presence in defense and ability to thwart opponents’ attacks make him a vital part of his teams.

Is height a significant factor in the game of football?

Height can be a factor in football, but it’s not the sole determinant of a player’s success. Football is a dynamic and multifaceted sport that requires a combination of skills, tactics, athleticism, and teamwork. While height can offer certain advantages in specific aspects of the game, it’s just one among many factors that contribute to a player’s overall performance. Here are some ways in which height can matter in football, as well as contexts where it might be less significant:

Advantages of Height:

• Aerial Duels: Taller players often have an advantage in aerial duels, such as heading the ball during set pieces (corners, free kicks). This can be crucial in both offensive and defensive situations.
• Goalkeeping: Height can be advantageous for goalkeepers as they attempt to reach high shots and crosses. A taller goalkeeper may have an easier time blocking shots aimed towards the top corners of the goal.
• Target Strikers: Tall forwards can be effective as target men who receive long passes and crosses, holding up the ball and bringing teammates into play.
• Defensive Presence: Tall defenders can deter opponents from attempting high crosses or shots and can also be assets during defensive set pieces.

Factors Beyond Height:

• Skill and Technique: Football requires exceptional ball control, passing accuracy, shooting ability, and tactical awareness. These skills are not determined by height.
• Speed and Agility: While height might not be directly tied to speed and agility, these attributes are crucial in various positions and situations on the field.
• Positional Awareness: Understanding the game’s tactics, positioning, and decision-making are essential for players of all sizes. Intelligence and reading of the game matter more than height in many cases.
• Teamwork and Adaptability: Football is a team sport that requires players to work together harmoniously. A player’s ability to understand and adapt to their teammates’ play styles is vital.
• Versatility: Modern football demands versatility. Players who can perform well in multiple positions and adapt to different tactical systems are highly valued.
• Mental Attributes: Factors like determination, work ethic, leadership, and composure under pressure contribute significantly to a player’s success.
• Injury Prevention: Taller players might face challenges related to injury prevention, as their bodies may be more prone to certain types of injuries. Proper training and conditioning can mitigate these risks.

In conclusion, while height can offer advantages in specific aspects of football, it is not the sole determinant of a player’s success. Players of various sizes have excelled in the sport through their skills, work ethic, teamwork, and adaptability. Football is a beautiful blend of physical attributes, technical prowess, and mental acumen, and the successful players are those who can harness these aspects to contribute to their teams’ success.

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