29 Trending Soccer Player Haircuts for a Sporty Look

You see them score the goals, but if you’re anything like us, you’re also taking notes on the hair.

Soccer players aren’t just masters of the pitch. They are arguably the single biggest driving force behind modern men’s grooming trends. Whether it’s the architectural precision of Jude Bellingham’s Edgar, the sleek consistency of Ronaldo’s fade, or the sheer statement of Haaland’s flow, these cuts are more than just style. They are personal brand statements that demand precision.

But here’s the problem with most online guides. They show you the picture but leave you hanging on the instructions. This is the definitive, pro-level guide you’ve been searching for. We’ve gone beyond the visuals to bring you the exact technical blueprint you need. You won’t just know what the cut is. You’ll get the specific clipper guards, fade style, and styling product recommendations for every single look.

Ready to switch up your look? Stop asking for “just a fade.” Pick your icon, read the playbook, and walk into your barber’s chair with the confidence of a champion.

Popular Soccer Player Haircuts

1. Jude Bellingham – Short Afro Taper Fade with Line Up

Jude Bellingham, the Real Madrid and England midfield sensation, has defined a key trend in modern grooming with his Short Afro Taper Fade with Line Up. This haircut is a masterclass in controlled volume, where his natural texture and curls are structured into a clean, easy-to-manage shape. The style is defined by a perfectly executed Edge-Up at the hairline, cutting a razor-sharp, confident structure that complements his youthful energy and bold style, making it ideal for men with coily or afro-textured hair.

To replicate this popular look, ask your barber for a Low or Mid Taper Fade on the sides and back; the fade should be soft and subtle, preserving the length further up the head. The hair on top should be cut to a very short, uniform length (#3 or #4 guard) and rounded to fit the head shape. The critical detail is the Line-Up: this must be done with extreme precision (often using a razor) to create the crisp, blunt edges at the temples and forehead. For styling, minimal product is needed: a light moisturizing oil or curl cream is all that’s required to keep the short curls defined, healthy, and frizz-free.

Read More: How Often Should Men Get A Haircut?

2. Cristiano Ronaldo – Slick Back Fade

Cristiano Ronaldo, the global football icon, defines the modern athletic aesthetic with his ever-sharp, disciplined grooming. His current signature style, the Slick Back Fade, is the perfect evolution of his look: a highly polished appearance that mirrors his controlled discipline on the field. This style features his natural, thick hair combed back tightly from the forehead, creating a sophisticated flow that blends into an extremely clean fade on the sides. It is a look of uncompromising precision, ideal for men with thick or wavy hair who demand high-impact style.

To achieve Ronaldo’s signature sleek look, precision and product are non-negotiable. Request a Mid to High Fade that tapers sharply into the stubble around the ears, avoiding a harsh disconnection but ensuring a very clean blend. The top hair must be left long enough (4 to 5 inches) to be swept back. The true secret is the product and technique: apply a strong-hold, high-shine pomade or gel to damp hair. Use a fine-tooth comb to rake the hair back and slightly to the side (the “slick back”), ensuring every hair is locked in place. This product choice provides the wet, glossy finish that makes this cut the pinnacle of modern, polished grooming.

Read More: Diamond Face Shape Hairstyles for Men

3. Kylian Mbappe – Buzz Cut Fade

Kylian Mbappé, the electric French forward and Real Madrid star, chooses the Buzz Cut Fade as his signature style. This haircut is the definition of low-maintenance, high-impact grooming, perfectly suiting a world-class athlete who needs a practical yet polished look. The style is defined by its clean, minimalist aesthetic, where the very short length on top is paired with a sharp fade on the sides, giving him a clean, masculine silhouette that highlights his strong facial features.

To achieve this maximum level of polish, the technique is simple but requires precision. Request a High Skin Fade or Low Fade on the sides. This means the hair transitions quickly from skin (or stubble) to the short length on top. The hair on top should be cut to a uniform, very short length, usually a #2 or #3 clipper guard. The key to the “Fade” portion is the Edge-Up: ask for a razor-sharp line-up (or Edge-Up) along the hairline, temples, and nape. This is what transforms a simple buzz cut into Mbappé’s iconic, highly structured, and clean look.

4. Antoine Griezmann – Textured Long Flow

Antoine Griezmann, the recently retired French forward, is a fashion risk-taker whose style evolved into the sophisticated, laid-back Textured Long Flow. This haircut, also known as Long Shaggy Waves, embraces natural volume and movement, reflecting a relaxed yet high-fashion aesthetic. This is an ideal style for men with naturally wavy or curly hair who want to break free from sharp structures and let their hair move freely, achieving a signature, effortless cool that works perfectly with their full beard.

To achieve this natural, shaggy appearance, the cut must be focused on layering. Request a long, shaggy cut with heavy internal and surface layering throughout the entire head. This is crucial for reducing bulk and encouraging the natural wave or curl to form. Avoid cutting the hair bluntly. The sides should be integrated seamlessly into the length, maintaining a soft, connected look. The styling is the antithesis of a slick back: apply a sea salt spray or light mousse to damp hair, then air-dry or gently diffuse it. The goal is to enhance the natural texture and movement without using heavy waxes or pomades, resulting in that perfectly tousled, carefree finish.

5. Eden Hazard Haircut: Crew Cut Fade

Eden Hazard’s Crew Cut Fade, more accurately a Short Fringe Crop, is the epitome of a high-performance athlete’s cut. Though the Belgian legend recently retired, this haircut remains popular for its perfect balance of classic appeal and modern practicality. It’s a no-nonsense style that requires zero styling fuss on the training pitch and uses the sharp lines of the fade to enhance the natural definition of the face. This cut is a fantastic, versatile choice for any man with an active lifestyle.

To get this famously crisp look, you need to be precise. Request a Mid Skin Fade on the sides and back, blending from the skin up to a short top (around 1 to 1.5 inches). Crucially, ask your barber for a blunt fringe, meaning the front hairline is cut straight across, which is the defining feature of the crop. This style is low-maintenance, requiring only a small amount of matte clay or paste to add a touch of texture without the shine. It works especially well for men with round or oval face shapes and straight hair who want a short, strong, confidence-projecting cut.

6. Virgil van Dijk – Low Bun

Virgil van Dijk, the world-class center-back, has made the Low Man Bun his signature style. This perfectly embodies his commanding presence. It is practical, clean, and highly sophisticated. For men with long, thick, or curly hair, this style is ideal for maintaining a tidy, distraction-free appearance while projecting a masculine, rugged edge. Van Dijk’s take is defined by the slicked-back quality of his curls, ensuring zero flyaways and a polished finish that works for both the pitch and formal wear.

To replicate Van Dijk’s sleek, controlled look, the focus is on smoothing product and placement. The most important step is keeping the hair well-moisturized and detangled. Before tying, apply a medium-hold styling cream or a lightweight serum to the full length of the hair; this tames his natural curls and adds the necessary shine. Then, use a brush or fine-tooth comb to rake the hair back tightly and secure the bun low at the nape of the neck. Securing it low (rather than high on the crown) is the key to his sophisticated, classic profile, ensuring a clean silhouette that emphasizes his facial structure.

7. Jordan Henderson – Side Swept Hair with Low Drop Fade

Jordan Henderson, the decorated English midfielder, favors a sophisticated look that seamlessly blends classic refinement with modern sharpness: the Side Swept Hair with a Low Drop Fade. This haircut is a masterclass in controlled volume, where the top is swept upward and to the side, maintaining a polished, gentlemanly appearance. The key to its high-value look is the shine and texture that accompany the structured shape, making it an ideal choice for men with straight, medium-to-thick hair who seek a mature, elegant style.

To replicate this distinguished cut, precision is vital. Ask your barber for a Low Drop Fade or Low Taper Fade, ensuring the transition is gradual and the short length doesn’t rise above the temple. The hair on top must be left long (3 to 4 inches) with light layers to encourage the side sweep and volume. The styling is the secret to the shine: apply a volumizing mousse or tonic to damp hair, then use a round brush to blow-dry the hair up and over to the side. Finish with a medium-hold, high-shine pomade or shine cream to achieve the sleek, glossy finish that makes this sophisticated side sweep stand out.

8. Declan Rice – Full Brush Back with Mid Taper Fade

Declan Rice, the commanding English midfielder, sports a sophisticated Full Brush Back with a Mid Taper Fade that perfectly balances classic style with modern athleticism. This look is all about volume, height, and clean structure. Unlike a flat comb-over, Rice’s style is brushed back and slightly up, featuring a subtle, hidden center part that adds dimension and enhances his natural hairline. It is a refined, powerful haircut that complements angular or oval face shapes and works perfectly in both professional and athletic settings.

To achieve Rice’s signature voluminous look, clear instructions are essential. Request a Mid Taper Fade on the sides and back, starting the taper with a #2 guard at the temples and fading down to a #1 at the neckline. The top hair needs to be long (3 to 4 inches) to allow for the backward sweep. The styling is the secret to the height: apply a pre-styler or sea salt spray to damp hair, and then use a brush to blow-dry the hair backward and upward from the roots. Finish with a medium-hold, matte pomade or styling cream to maintain the volume and hold the sweep without any slickness or unnatural shine.

9. Weston McKennie – Kinky Curls with Faded Sides

Weston McKennie, the dynamic American midfielder for the US national team, carries an equally versatile and energetic style off the pitch with his Kinky Curls with Faded Sides. This look is defined by maximum, healthy volume on top, celebrating the natural texture of his hair, while the sides are kept strictly faded. This combination creates a sharp, powerful silhouette that is both modern and low-maintenance, perfectly complementing his strong facial structure and thick goatee.

To replicate McKennie’s defined, voluminous style, the cut must be precise. Request a Mid or High Taper Fade on the sides and back, ensuring a clean transition that sets off the volume on top. The hair on top should be long enough (around 3 to 5 inches) to allow for full curl definition and shape. The key to this healthy volume is moisture and maintenance: use a curl-defining cream or oil-based moisturizer daily to prevent frizz and dryness. To maintain the crispness of the fade and the structure of the overall shape, this cut requires a sharp line-up and regular maintenance trims every 2–3 weeks.

10. Joao Felix – Messy Medium Hair

João Félix, the dynamic Portuguese forward, embodies modern European street style with his Messy Fringe and medium-length hair. This is a deliberate, relaxed look that complements his youthful energy by softening his facial features, making it ideal for those with oval or heart-shaped faces. The style succeeds because it maintains a strong foundational cut while looking completely effortless, the perfect blend of laid-back charm and trending fashion.

To achieve this natural, tousled appearance, detail is needed. Ask your barber for a scissor-cut taper on the back and sides, avoiding harsh clippers; the goal is a soft graduation rather than a sharp fade. The hair on top should be left at a medium length (3 to 4 inches) with heavy interior layering to reduce weight and encourage that feathery, effortless movement. The styling is simple but crucial: skip heavy products. Apply a light texturizing spray or sea salt mist to damp hair, then use your fingers (not a comb) to sweep the fringe loosely over the forehead, letting it air-dry to maximize the natural, unpolished finish.

11. Sergio Ramos – Slicked Back Undercut

Sergio Ramos, one of football’s most decorated defenders, matches his commanding presence on the field with an equally bold, masculine style off it. His signature Slicked Back Undercut is a high-contrast look that perfectly complements his extensive tattoos and fearless persona. By combining substantial length on top with an ultra-short side, the haircut exudes confidence and striking modernity. This is the ultimate choice for men who want a powerful, structured style with a sleek, high-fashion finish.

To achieve Ramos’ aggressive, polished look, the technical details are crucial. Request a High Skin Fade or Undercut on the sides, meaning the hair is taken down to the skin with a #0 or #1 guard and is intentionally disconnected from the top. The hair on top must be left long (4 to 6 inches) to allow it to be fully combed back. The styling is non-negotiable: this look demands an extreme hold. Apply a high-shine, oil-based pomade or gel to damp hair, then comb it straight back. This not only keeps the hair flawlessly in place but delivers the high polish, sleek finish required for his signature style.

12. Trent Alexander-Arnold – Short Afro Fade

Trent Alexander-Arnold, the influential English full-back, has adopted the Short Afro Fade as his most consistently sharp and professional look. This haircut is the gold standard for men with tightly coiled or Afro-textured hair who want a defined, clean silhouette. By combining neatly shaped, short curls on top with an ultra-crisp fade on the sides, the style maximizes natural texture while presenting a refined, modern appearance that perfectly complements his status as a decorated athlete.

To replicate this refined, yet powerful look, clear instructions are essential. Request a High Skin Fade or Drop Fade to create maximum contrast and a clean line around the temples and neck. The hair on top should be cut very short (a #3 or #4 clipper guard works best), maintaining the uniform shape of the afro. The maintenance is key to the health of the style: ensure the hairline is lined up with a razor for extreme precision. To keep the curls defined and healthy, apply a natural oil blend (like coconut or shea butter) or a specialized curl cream daily to prevent dryness and maintain moisture and bounce.

13. Paulo Dybala – Messy Comb Over

Paulo Dybala, the influential Argentinian forward, is known for a style that is both trendy and minimalist. His signature Messy Comb Over Fade is a smart, versatile haircut that strikes the perfect balance between casual texture and sharp structure. It’s defined by the longer, voluminous hair on top, which is swept gently from a deep side part, allowing a wispy fringe to soften the forehead. This polished yet slightly tousled look perfectly captures Dybala’s flair for modern, sophisticated fashion.

To achieve this specific blend of structure and texture, ask your barber for a Mid Fade, avoiding a high or skin fade, to maintain a gradual transition and avoid harsh lines. The hair on top should be long enough (3 to 4 inches) to be swept over, but must be cut with internal layering to ensure it falls with a messy, wispy quality. The styling is about control without stiffness: apply a light matte paste or styling cream to dry hair. Use your fingers to sweep the hair across and slightly forward from the deep side part, specifically encouraging the front to fall naturally across the forehead for that characteristic wispy fringe.

14. Erling Haaland – Long Ponytail with Shaved Sides

Erling Haaland, the record-smashing striker for Manchester City and Norway, matches his powerful presence with a signature, high-contrast style: the Long Ponytail with Shaved Sides. This bold style is the definition of functional fashion, blending extreme athletic practicality with a dramatic, edgy aesthetic. The look is achieved by pairing his very long, thick blonde hair (typically worn in a tight top knot or low ponytail) with a sharp, disconnected short side, creating a striking, two-part silhouette that is instantly recognizable and perfectly complements his commanding stature.

To replicate this unique, high-impact style, ask your barber for a Disconnected High Undercut. This is the key technical detail: the sides should be cut down to the shortest setting (#0 or skin fade) with no attempt to blend into the length on top. The hair on top must be allowed to grow to a considerable length (8+ inches) to secure a functional, thick ponytail or bun. The key to maintaining the length is health and control: always use a strong, athletic elastic to secure the tie, and regularly apply a lightweight hair serum or smoothing oil to the long hair to tame flyaways, reduce frizz, and keep his thick blonde tresses looking healthy and sleek.

15. Son Heung-min – Off-Center Part with Low Taper

Son Heung-min, the South Korean scoring sensation and football icon, masters a look that is the gold standard for versatility. The Off-Center Part with a Low Taper. This haircut transitions flawlessly between his everyday style and a youthful Curtain Bangs aesthetic, featuring light texture and his polished, formal slick-back. It’s a gentlemanly cut that maximizes refinement without looking overdone, making it the perfect choice for men with straight hair who value subtle elegance and structural integrity.

To achieve this sophisticated, dual-purpose cut, precise length is key. Request a Low Taper Fade on the sides and back, avoiding any harsh skin fade. The taper should be subtle and clean, typically using scissors-over-comb for a soft finish. The hair on top must be left substantially long (4 to 6 inches) with long layers to maintain weight and flow. The styling secret is in the volume: blow-dry the hair forward and slightly to the side to create the soft fringe/curtain part. Finish with a light, low-shine styling cream or mousse to add control and volume to the bangs without making them stiff, allowing for easy re-combing into a slick back for formal events.

16. Lionel Messi – Spiky Crew Cut with Taper Fade

Lionel Messi, widely considered the greatest soccer player of all time, boasts an unmatched legacy including a record 7 Ballon d’Or titles and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His current haircut is a masterclass in elegant, functional simplicity, perfectly mirroring his controlled and professional style. It’s a versatile look that transitions effortlessly: sharp enough for a formal appearance, yet practical enough for the pitch, making it an ideal choice for a clean, mature, and low-maintenance aesthetic.

To achieve this versatile cut, you must be specific with your barber. Request a Low Taper Fade on the sides and back, starting with a #1 or #2 guard only at the neckline and temples for a subtle, professional graduation. The top should be a Textured Crew Cut (around 1.5 inches) and must be prepared with point cutting to give the hair flexible styling options. For a sharp, spiky finish, use a high-hold matte clay; alternatively, switch to a light styling cream to achieve his softer, natural comb-over look. This attention to detail ensures the cut remains universally clean and professional.

17. Granit Xhaka – Side Part Fade

Granit Xhaka, the commanding midfielder and Swiss national captain, projects his sharp, tactical intelligence with a signature Side Part Fade. This look is less about texture and more about precision, shine, and structure. The sleek, slicked-back appearance paired with a prominent widow’s peak commands attention and adds a strong layer of refinement. This style is an excellent choice for men with square face shapes or dark, straight hair, as the abrupt fade and sharp line work maximize contrast and highlight bone structure.

To achieve this polished look, you must be specific with your barber. Request a High Fade or a Disconnected Fade, as the contrast should be sharp, not gradual. The top hair needs to be long enough (3–4 inches) to slick back, and you must ask for a Hard Part (or Razor Part) to be shaved in, clearly defining the separation. For styling, avoid matte products entirely. This look demands a high-shine, strong-hold pomade or gel applied to damp hair and combed straight back, ensuring the hair stays perfectly in place all day.

18. Kevin De Bruyne – Thick Brush Back

Kevin De Bruyne, the brilliant Belgian and Manchester City playmaking force, is famous for his trademark Thick Brush Back, a dynamic style that perfectly complements his energy on the pitch. While he recently turned heads by sporting a temporary, slicked-back top-knot similar to Erling Haaland’s, his iconic style remains this mid-length quiff. It flows naturally upward from the center of his forehead, utilizing his thick, strawberry-blonde color and highlights to create unparalleled texture and dimension, a versatile look that projects confidence and high energy.

Achieving De Bruyne’s iconic brush back requires a specific length and a high-quality product. Ask your barber for a short clipper setting (around a #2 guard or 6mm) on the sides and back, but make sure to avoid a harsh skin fade for a softer, more classic finish. The top must be left substantially long (3 to 4 inches) to allow for the necessary volume and upward flow. The true secret lies in the styling: apply a pre-styler or sea salt spray to damp hair for volume, then blow-dry the hair straight back. Finish with a strong-hold, matte clay to ensure the hair holds its height and shape without looking greasy or stiff, capturing that natural, dynamic flow.

19. Toni Kroos – Undercut

Toni Kroos, the retired midfield maestro whose career peaked with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, commanded the pitch with the same precise, composed style he wore off it. His signature undercut perfectly reflects his composed nature. It’s sharp, clean, and requires zero movement. This classic style remains a top choice for men seeking a professional, high-polish look with minimal styling fuss. It’s a timeless cut that projects both control and confidence.

To replicate this refined undercut, you need to request a Disconnected Cut. This means the sides are cut very short (a #1 or #2 guard) with no blend or fade, creating a sharp, obvious line separating the short sides from the long top. The hair on top must be long enough (4 to 6 inches) to fully slick back over the short sides. Crucially, the styling demands a high-shine finish: use a strong-hold, water-based pomade on damp hair, then comb the hair straight back. The pomade gives the cut its signature sophistication, ensuring it stays perfectly in place all day.

20. David Beckham – Short Textured Hair with Tapered Sides

David Beckham is the definitive global style icon, a legacy cemented across elite clubs and maintained today as a co-owner of Inter Miami CF. Unlike other players who cycle through trends, Beckham’s current go-to is a masterclass in mature, high-low style: a short, high-volume textured top that perfectly balances rugged masculinity with refined tailoring. This is a haircut that successfully integrates his well-groomed beard and tattoos, making it the blueprint for men who want to age with undeniable flair.

To capture this effortlessly cool, contemporary style, precision is paramount. Ask your barber for a Short Textured Crop on top, keeping the length around 1.5 to 2 inches and requesting heavy point-cutting and layering for maximum volume and that signature messy finish. Crucially, the sides should be a soft, low taper, typically done with scissors-over-comb or a #3 guard, avoiding a harsh skin fade. The styling secret is texture and lift: use a high-volume sea salt spray as a pre-styler, blow-dry the hair forward and up, and finish with a lightweight, matte clay to provide strong hold and separation without any shine.

21. Zlatan Ibrahimovic – Long Hair

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Sweden’s all-time top scorer and a football icon across multiple European leagues, is famous for a persona that demands attention, and his long hair is central to that confidence. While many men with long hair wear it simply for volume, Zlatan’s style is defined by control and polish. He alternates between wearing his thick, dark hair tied into a powerful top knot or slicked straight back, allowing his length to fall over his shoulders with a distinguished, mature edge. This is a bold choice that reflects strength, elegance, and high self-maintenance.

To replicate Zlatan’s controlled look, the focus is entirely on product and technique. First, ensure the top layer is blunt-cut (no layering) for maximum weight and a sleek appearance. The key technical step is the “slick back“: apply a high-shine, water-based gel or firm-hold pomade to towel-dried hair, then use a fine-tooth comb to rake the hair back tightly from the forehead. When tying it up, use the Gareth Bale top knot/man bun technique, securing the bun high on the crown of the head to keep the front tight and off the face, achieving that signature, aggressive silhouette.

22. Héctor Bellerín – Middle Part Mullet

Héctor Bellerín, known as much for his progressive style as his skill on the pitch, wears the Middle Part Mullet, a perfect blend of retro structure and modern, effortless flow. This is a haircut designed for natural volume and movement, making it a powerful choice for those with thick or naturally curly/wavy hair. The look is defined by a strong center part and a face-framing fringe that sharply contrasts with the longer, bouncy length at the back, reflecting Bellerín’s confidence and individuality.

To achieve this specific textured look, communication with your barber is key. Request a Drop Fade or Low Taper Fade on the sides to keep the bulk minimal but avoid shaving too high, which would remove the “mullet” connection. The top and back should be cut with scissors only, retaining length (around 3 to 5 inches) for the flow, but asking for heavy internal layering to reduce weight and encourage bounce. The styling secret is moisture and volume: skip the stiff gels. Instead, apply a curl cream or mousse to damp hair, scrunch it gently, and let it air-dry to maximize the natural texture and keep the look bouncy and light.

23. Paul Pogba – Frohawk

Paul Pogba, the expressive French World Cup winner, is as iconic for his dynamic, ever-changing hairstyles as he is for his midfield brilliance. His signature Frohawk is the ultimate statement cut: a powerful blend of Afro-textured volume and Mohawk structure. Pogba uses this style, often featuring bold blonde highlights and intricate shaved designs, to project individuality and cultural pride. This is a high-impact, customizable haircut that works beautifully for men with naturally kinky or coily hair who want to maximize height and definition.

To achieve this bold, custom look, the technical details are crucial. You must request a High Skin Fade or High Taper Fade on the sides to create maximum contrast and properly set the canvas for the shaved designs. The hair on top should be left at significant length (4+ inches) and cut to a Mohawk shape, narrowing toward the crown. The true value is maintenance: to keep the Afro texture healthy and defined, the hair should be moisturized daily with a leave-in conditioner or natural oil blend. Furthermore, for the extreme precision required for his geometric designs, this cut demands a sharp line-up and touch-up appointments every 10-14 days.

24. Neymar – Short Curly Hair Fade

Neymar da Silva Santos Junior, the iconic Brazilian forward, is known for his skill on the pitch and his status as a global style influencer. While he’s famous for experimenting, his Short Curly Hair Fade is his most consistently refined look, perfectly balancing sophistication with youthful flair. This style is built to harness and celebrate natural curly volume on top, pairing it with an ultra-clean fade on the sides and back—a modern silhouette that works for men with curly or coily hair who want structure and easy maintenance.

To achieve this ideal curly aesthetic, the technical instructions are key. You must request a Mid or High Taper Fade on the sides, avoiding a harsh skin fade to create a clean edge without sacrificing the blend. The hair on top should be left at a manageable length (2 to 3 inches) and cut with precision to ensure even curl definition. The secret is the product: skip gels and pastes. Instead, apply a curl-defining cream or light moisturizing pomade to wet hair, scrunching it gently to encourage the natural curl pattern and lock in moisture. This ensures the top remains bouncy, defined, and healthy, completing Neymar’s polished look.

25. Kevin Trapp – Slick Back with Short Sides

German goalkeeper Kevin Trapp’s Slick Back with Short Sides is a definitive haircut for the modern gentleman, perfectly balancing rugged charm with high-polish refinement. Unlike the flat, plastered-down look of a classic slick back, Trapp’s version is defined by impressive volume and height, giving the style a dynamic, rugged edge, especially when paired with his sharp goatee. This is an excellent choice for men with thick, straight hair who want a structured, powerful look that commands attention.

To achieve Trapp’s voluminous finish, the technical application is key. Ask your barber for a High Fade or Undercut on the sides (a #2 guard works well), leaving the top substantially long (4 to 6 inches). The styling secret is in the lift: apply a volumizing tonic or thickening mousse to damp hair, then use a brush or your hand to blow-dry the hair straight back and slightly up from the roots. Finish by applying a high-hold, matte pomade or clay to lock in the volume and provide the clean, slicked-back texture without any excessive shine.

26. Mohamed Salah – Buzz Cut Fade

Mohamed Salah, the celebrated Egyptian captain and Liverpool forward, recently traded his iconic afro for a much cleaner, modern style: the Buzz Cut Fade. This move emphasizes the sharpness of his features and creates a tidier, more sophisticated look while maintaining a fresh, youthful energy. This is a powerful, low-maintenance cut that perfectly frames his distinctive features, especially when paired with his full, well-maintained beard, a classic combination that provides excellent visual balance and strong masculine structure.

To replicate Salah’s sharp aesthetic, the technical details are crucial. Ask your barber for a Low or Mid Skin Fade on the sides and back to maximize the contrast. The hair on top should be a very short Buzz Cut, typically executed with a #2 or #3 clipper guard short enough to be wash-and-go, but long enough to provide texture. The most important step is the line-up: request a razor-sharp Edge-Up at the temples and hairline, and ensure the fade blends seamlessly into his full beard. This extreme precision is what transforms a standard buzz cut into Salah’s signature high-fashion, clean-cut statement.

27. Rodri – Textured Ivy League with Tapered Sides

Rodri, the world-class defensive midfielder, maintains a style that is as precise and reliable as his play: the Textured Ivy League with Tapered Sides. This is the quintessential gentleman’s haircut, offering a clean, structured appearance that never looks messy or overdone. The look is defined by longer hair on top that flows neatly forward and to the side, with a slight, subtle flip at the hairline. This classic style is perfectly suited for men with thick, straight hair who want a professional, athletic, and sophisticated aesthetic.

To replicate Rodri’s polished finish, technical subtlety is crucial. Ask your barber for a scissored taper on the back and sides. This is essential to create a soft, seamless, and subdued transition (avoiding a harsh clipper fade). The hair on top should be left at a medium length (2 to 3 inches) and blended to allow for the forward sweep. The styling is about light control: apply a low-shine, light-to-medium hold cream or paste to slightly damp hair. Use a comb or your fingers to brush the hair forward and gently sweep it to the side, lifting the fringe slightly at the hairline to achieve his signature structured, yet natural, flow.

28. Vinicius Jr. – Kinky Afro Curls with High Skin Fade

Vinicius Junior, widely known as Vini Jr., is a standout forward for both Real Madrid and the Brazil national team. A two-time UEFA Champions League final goal scorer (2022, 2024), he played a vital role in securing those titles. His performances earned him global recognition, including the Best FIFA Men’s Player award in 2024 and back-to-back selections in the FIFPRO World XI for 2023 and 2024.

Off the pitch, Vinicius Jr. embraces his Afro-Brazilian heritage through his hairstyle. While he previously wore classic Brazilian dreadlocks, his current look features long, kinky afro curls paired with a high skin fade. This bold style delivers maximum volume, complements his square face shape, and highlights his energetic personality and heartwarming smile. It’s a statement cut that blends texture, culture, and confidence, making it one of the most iconic football hairstyles today.

29. Stephan El Shaarawy – Faux Hawk Fade

Stephan El Shaarawy, or Il Faraone, is known for his electrifying pace and equally bold style choices. His signature Faux Hawk Fade is a high-energy look that blends aggressive structure with soft, voluminous texture, making it an ideal choice for men with thick, straight hair who want to maximize height and flair. This haircut is defined by a central mass of hair that flows forward and upward from the crown, meeting in a series of soft spikes, while the sharply faded sides ensure the contrast is extreme and clean.

To achieve this specific, sculpted volume, the cut requires an abrupt transition. Request a High Fade or Undercut on the sides, meaning the hair drops sharply from the top length. The hair on top must be left substantially long (4 to 6 inches) and cut with internal layers to encourage the soft, spikey texture. The styling is the secret to the volume and flow: apply a strong-hold, matte volumizing mousse or thickening cream to damp hair. Crucially, blow-dry the hair forward and upward using a round brush or your fingers. Finish by working a high-hold, low-shine pomade or wax through the hair, defining the upward-flowing spikes without making them look stiff or greasy.

Most Famous Footballer Hairstyles

These iconic footballers don’t just influence the game. Their grooming choices set global trends, blending athleticism, personality, and cutting-edge style. Each player’s look offers a precise technical blueprint for modern men’s haircuts:

• Cristiano Ronaldo – Slick Back Fade: Defined by a high-shine, strong-hold pomade that ensures every wave is flawlessly combed back over a clean fade.
• David Beckham – Short Textured Hair: A timeless look achieved with matte clay to create light, volume-driven spikes and a soft, scissored taper.
• Neymar – Short Curly Hair Fade: Combines a Mid Taper Fade with the controlled volume of defined curls, achieved using a curl-enhancing cream.
• Lionel Messi – Comb Over Taper Fade: A clean-cut image maintained with a structured side sweep over a soft, high-tapered side.
• Sergio Ramos – Slicked Back Undercut: A bold, high-contrast look featuring a Disconnected High Skin Fade paired with a glossy, slicked-back top.
• Kylian Mbappé – Buzz Cut Fade: A minimalist, high-impact style defined by a razor-sharp Line-Up (Edge-Up) and a tight clipper cut.
• Vinicius Jr – High Skin Faded Afro: Embraces natural texture with a High Skin Fade that maximizes the contrast and sharpness of the curl shape.
• Gareth Bale – Top Knot: A practical, long-hair style secured high on the crown to keep the front tightly pulled back and off the face.
• Zlatan Ibrahimović – Low Man Bun: A rugged, sophisticated flow achieved by securing his long, thick hair low at the nape of the neck for a controlled silhouette.

These stylish soccer stars with their cool haircuts highlight how elite players continually influence trends, making their cuts and grooming choices almost as iconic as their career accomplishments.

Comparison Hairct:

• Low Fade vs Mid Fade vs High Fade
• Taper vs Fade

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a die-hard soccer enthusiast or simply a man ready to upgrade your grooming game, this guide to soccer player haircuts offers more than just inspiration. It provides the technical blueprint. We’ve broken down each cut into precise instructions, including the exact clipper guards, fade levels, layering techniques, and styling products needed to replicate the look. From classic Ivy League cuts to daring Faux Hawk Fades, these trending looks reflect the flair, confidence, and individuality seen on and off the pitch. Use this comprehensive, technical resource to find the style that fits your hair type and personality, and step into your next barber visit with clear, confident instructions.

FAQs on Soccer Player Haircuts for Men