Last Updated: Aug 15, 2023
Being tall can be a big advantage in soccer/football, but finding the right position to play is important. Tall players have unique skills that can help their teams score goals and stop opponents.
In this article, we’ll explore the best soccer positions for tall players and explain how their height can make a difference on the field.
We’ll uncover how tall players can shine and contribute to their team’s success.
Let’s discover the perfect positions for those who reach for the soccer stars!
Table Of Contents
What Position do Tall Soccer Players Play?
The best soccer positions for tall players are The centre back, the centre forward(striker) and the goalie. Those three positions usually require a tall and physically strong player to win long balls.
In a few seconds from now, I am going to explain in a mere detail why it’s important to have tall players in the centre back, striker and goalie positions.
But first, if you are a tall soccer player and you would like to know what position will fit you well, it’s important to have a look at your skills, not only your height.
The truth is that in soccer, there are no specific positions for specific players. It is just a matter of whether you have what it takes or not.
For example, you can be tall, fast and have dribbling skills. In this case, you can also play as a midfield or winger.
So, do not just rely on your height to define your position.
Now, let’s see why it is important to play as a centre back if you are a tall player.
1-Why Is It Important To Have Tall Players In The Centre Back?
The centre back position is a defensive position that requires tall players to win long balls.
The majority of teams like to play long balls. So, if your team doesn’t have tall players in defence, likely, you are going to suffer a lot and concede a lot of goals.
For example, in English Primer League, the majority of teams love to play long balls. You can also notice that most defenders in Primer League are tall and physically strong.
Also, having tall players in defence is very crucial to defend corner kicks.
Corner kicks mean playing long balls in the box for a potential header. So, if you don’t have tall players to win those long balls in the box, the opposing team is going to dominate you.
It’s important to understand that your opponent team is always going to find out your weaknesses and use them to their advantage.
So, if they notice that your weakness is the defence, they are going to seek corners during the entire game to win those long balls and score many goals.
With that being said, put your tallest players as your centre backs.
==>>You can also read my full article about the Centre Back soccer position here.
2-Why Is It Important To Have Tall Players In The Striker Position?
There is a reason why some teams play with two strikers: The main striker and a second striker.
The main striker is required to be tall and physically strong to win long balls from crosses or knock the ball down for the second striker to finish.
For example, Inter Milan used to play with Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez.
They are two different profiles: Lukaku is tall and physically strong. However, Martinez is short and technically good.
This duo has been powerful for a while before Lukaku left the club.
So, having a tall striker will help your team during long balls, corners, or any other set-piece.
But, who are the tallest soccer players?
3-Why Is It Important To Have A Tall Player As A Goalie?
The goalkeeper is the last one to beat and the only one to use their hands in soccer.
It’s important to have a tall goalie to win aerial balls, especially in corners. If you have a short goalie, likey, you are going to suffer during corners.
The taller the goalie is, the easier it will be to make saves.
Plus, the goal post area is about 8 yards long and 8 feet high. So, having a tall goalie makes it easier to jump from one angle to another to make a save.
==>> You can also read my article about soccer goalkeeper tips for beginners here.
Understanding the Role of Tall Players in Soccer
Free Kicks and Set Pieces
Tall players play a pivotal role during free kicks and set pieces in soccer. When a team is awarded a free kick near the opponent’s goal, or when they have a corner kick, tall players are often strategically positioned in the penalty box. This is because their height gives them an advantage when contesting aerial duels.
During free kicks, the ball is often crossed into the penalty area, and tall players can use their height to outjump their opponents and direct the ball towards the goal with a powerful header.
Similarly, during corner kicks, tall players can position themselves strategically to attack the ball as it’s delivered into the box. This increases the team’s chances of scoring, as tall players can create scoring opportunities through headers or knockdowns for their teammates.
Adaptability and Versatility
While height can provide certain advantages on the soccer field, adaptability and versatility are equally important qualities for players of all heights.
Adaptability means being able to adjust your playing style based on the team’s tactics and the flow of the game. Versatility involves having a wide range of skills that allow you to excel in various positions and situations.
Tall players should not solely rely on their height; they should also work on their ball control, passing accuracy, and tactical understanding.
These skills enable them to contribute effectively in different roles, such as defending, midfield play, or supporting attacks.
A tall player who can adapt to various positions becomes an asset to the team, as they can plug gaps where needed and bring a unique blend of physicality and finesse to their play.
Height vs. Skill Balance
The balance between height and skill is a crucial aspect of soccer. While height can provide advantages in certain situations, such as aerial duels, possessing strong technical skills and game intelligence is equally vital.
A player’s ability to read the game, make quick decisions, and execute precise passes can often outweigh the advantages of height.
Coaches value players who can contribute consistently with their skills, regardless of their height. Even taller players must hone their passing, dribbling, and defensive abilities.
This blend of height and skill makes a player more well-rounded and capable of adapting to different tactical scenarios on the field.
Modern Tactical Trends
Modern soccer is marked by tactical innovation and adaptability. Teams are experimenting with different playing styles, formations, and strategies to gain an edge over their opponents.
One prominent trend is possession-based play, where teams focus on retaining the ball and building patient attacks.
Tall players can play a crucial role in modern tactics, regardless of their positions.
For instance, they can be used to retain possession by winning aerial duels during goal kicks or long passes.
Additionally, they can be part of build-up play from the back, using their height to receive and control high passes, contributing to the team’s ball circulation.
Player Development
Player development is an ongoing process in soccer. It involves honing technical skills, improving physical fitness, and enhancing tactical understanding.
For tall players, development goes beyond just height; it encompasses refining their overall game.
Tall players should work with coaches to improve their weaknesses and enhance their strengths. They can focus on improving their agility, footwork, and decision-making.
Regular training sessions that incorporate skill drills and tactical scenarios will help them become more versatile and capable players.
Statistical Analysis
Statistical analysis plays a growing role in soccer, helping teams make informed decisions about player selection and strategy.
When analyzing player performance, data on aerial duels won, passing accuracy, defensive actions, and goal-scoring can highlight the contributions of tall players.
However, statistics must be contextualized. A tall player’s value goes beyond numbers; it’s about how they fit into the team’s tactics and contribute to overall gameplay.
Statistical insights can guide coaches in utilizing tall players effectively and adapting their strategies based on data-driven trends.
Psychological Factors
Height can sometimes bring psychological challenges to tall players. Expectations related to their height might create pressure to perform in specific ways.
They may feel pressure to excel in aerial duels or headers due to their height, potentially affecting their overall game.
Tips for Tall Soccer Players
If you’re a tall soccer player, you have unique strengths that can greatly benefit your team. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your height and succeed on the field:
1. Master Aerial Duels
Your height gives you an advantage in winning aerial duels. Practice your timing and positioning to outjump opponents during headers.
Focus on both offensive and defensive situations, as winning headers can create scoring chances or prevent goals.
2. Improve Footwork and Agility
Being tall doesn’t mean sacrificing agility. Work on your footwork and quick movements to navigate the field effectively. Sharp changes in direction and acceleration are crucial for maintaining control and staying ahead of opponents.
3. Enhance Ball Control
Develop your ball control skills to receive and distribute passes with finesse. Tall players with excellent ball control can play as midfielders, helping in both defensive and offensive phases of the game.
4. Diversify Your Skill Set
While height is an asset, being a well-rounded player is essential. Hone your passing, shooting, and dribbling skills. This versatility makes you valuable in various positions and tactical setups.
5. Tactical Awareness
Understand your team’s tactics and your role within them. Whether it’s positioning during set pieces, contributing to build-up play, or defending, your understanding of the game’s tactical nuances is key.
6. Play to Your Strengths
Embrace your physicality and use it strategically. When marking opponents or contesting for the ball, use your body to shield and gain an advantage.
7. Practice Set Pieces
Given your height, you’re an asset during set pieces. Spend time practicing your heading accuracy and timing to capitalize on corner kicks and free kicks. Your ability to convert these opportunities into goals can be a game-changer.
8. Communication is Key
Your perspective on the field can provide valuable insights. Communicate effectively with your teammates, helping them with positioning, defensive organization, and coordinating set-piece strategies.
9. Stay Fit
Focus on your overall fitness, including strength, endurance, and flexibility. A well-conditioned body enhances your performance and reduces the risk of injuries.
10. Learn from Others
Study tall players who excel in different positions. Observe their techniques, positioning, and decision-making. Adapt their successful strategies to your style of play.
11. Confidence Matters
Embrace your height as an advantage. Approach each match with confidence in your abilities. Your positive mindset can impact your performance on the field.
12. Adapt and Evolve
Soccer is dynamic, and so is your role on the team. Be open to adapting to new positions and tactics as needed. Your versatility will make you an indispensable asset.
Remember, while height provides advantages, your skills and attitude determine your success. Continuously seek improvement, adapt to changing scenarios, and contribute effectively to your team’s success.
Some Of The Tallest Soccer Players
Here is a list of some of the tallest soccer defenders:
- Lacina Traore. Ivorian (Height: 2.03 m)
- Virgil Van Dijk (Height: 1.94 m)
- Niklas Sule (Height: 1.95)
- Kalidou Koulibaly (Height: 1.87 m)
- Gerard Pique (Height: 1.94 m)
Here are some of the tallest soccer strikers:
- Peter Crouch (Height: 2.01)
- Stefan Maierhofer (Height: 2.02)
- Simon Makienok (Height: 2.01)
- Sasa Kalajdzic (Height: 2m)
- Paul Onuachu (Height: 2.01)
These are just some of the tallest strikers in soccer but not the tallest.
Many people still believe that Peter Crouch is the tallest soccer player ever.
But, as you can see above, there are many players taller than him.
Peter Crouch is certainly the most famous tallest player ever.
But, the tallest soccer player is reported to be Kristof Van Hout (Height: 2.08).
How Tall Is Cr7?
Cristiano Ronaldo aka Cr7 is 1.87 m feet high. This is why he has scored several goals with his head. He is considered the Michael Jordan of soccer.
Final Word
At the end of this article, it should be remembered that tall soccer players can play in any position. But the most suited positions for them are the centre back, striker and the goalie as these positions require winning long balls in the air.
I hope you have gained value from this article.
How tall are you? What position do you play? Do you think your height and skills can allow you to play as a centre back or striker?
Let me know in the comment section below.
You should also read my article about the best soccer positions for short players.
