Trending Soccer Player Haircuts Every Fan Should Know About
From locker rooms to luxury runways, soccer players are more than just athletes—they’re global style influencers. One of the first things fans notice? Their hair. Whether it’s bold, neat, edgy, or downright wild, footballer haircuts set trends around the world. Let’s explore 29 soccer player hairstyles that are turning heads in 2025.
Popular Soccer Player Haircuts
Lionel Messi – Spiky Crew Cut with Taper Fade
Lionel Messi’s current hairstyle perfectly mirrors his mature, composed demeanor on the field. This spiky crew cut, paired with a soft taper fade on the sides, blends functionality with a dash of personality. It’s not overly styled, but the short textured spikes up top offer just enough flair. This is a great cut for guys who want something that looks fresh with minimal effort. Bonus? It works well with both straight and slightly wavy hair, and transitions smoothly from day-to-day wear to formal looks.
Eden Hazard – Crew Cut Fade
Eden Hazard might be laid-back in his demeanor, but his haircut means business. His crew cut fade is ultra-clean and tight around the edges, giving him a no-nonsense appearance on the pitch. This is the type of haircut that gives off “ready-for-anything” energy. It’s military-inspired, which explains the sharp, controlled look, but Hazard manages to wear it with a touch of cool European polish. If you want a strong, athletic look that’s also office-appropriate, this one’s a winner.
Granit Xhaka – Side Part Fade
Xhaka’s hairstyle brings classic barbershop vibes into the modern game. The sharp side part combined with a smooth skin fade creates a tidy silhouette that’s masculine yet refined. The look draws attention to the parting line—usually defined with a razor—while the fade keeps everything crisp and fresh. This cut suits men with thick hair and is ideal for those wanting a neat and polished look without looking too “try-hard.” It’s mature, confident, and screams leadership.
Watch more hairstyles : Low Fade vs. Mid Fade vs. High Fade
Kevin De Bruyne – Thick Brush Back
Kevin De Bruyne’s signature brushed-back hairstyle is as structured and intelligent as his passes. With a thick mane pushed backward in a controlled wave, this cut gives off an effortlessly powerful vibe. The volume up top adds height to the face, making it a flattering choice for guys with rounder features. You can tell De Bruyne puts thought into his look, just like he does in every match. This one’s ideal for men who prefer a natural, full look with a subtle finish—no harsh lines, just good grooming.
Toni Kroos – Undercut
When it comes to discipline and precision, Toni Kroos doesn’t just show it in his passes—it’s in his haircut too. His classic undercut keeps the sides extremely short while allowing a modest amount of hair on top to sweep slightly to the side or back. This creates contrast and clean lines that look polished but not flashy. It’s a style that screams focus and function—perfect for men who like low-maintenance hair that still makes a statement.
David Beckham – Short Textured Hair with Tapered Sides
David Beckham is a style legend, and this haircut is one of his most iconic. The top is short, choppy, and full of texture, allowing for a tousled, lived-in look. Meanwhile, the tapered sides add shape without being too severe. It’s rugged yet refined—a look that works just as well in a leather jacket as it does in a tux. Beckham’s haircut is great for men who want a youthful, effortlessly cool vibe that doesn’t require loads of styling products.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic – Long Hair
Zlatan isn’t one to follow trends—he sets them. His long hair, often tied back in a top knot or slick ponytail, is a bold choice that exudes strength, independence, and a touch of rebellion. It’s the kind of hairstyle that requires confidence to pull off. It also takes maintenance—long locks need proper conditioning and regular trims—but when done right, it’s pure power. Whether you’re a striker or a software developer, this look says you’re in control.
Héctor Bellerín – Middle Part Mullet
A true fashion-forward footballer, Héctor Bellerín brings back the retro mullet with a Gen Z twist. His version, complete with a middle part, is all about balance—structured up front, party in the back. The curtain-style parting adds symmetry to the face, while the mullet gives off carefree, rockstar energy. It’s edgy, unconventional, and definitely not for the faint of heart. Ideal for trendsetters and rebels alike.
Paul Pogba – Frohawk
Paul Pogba never shies away from bold self-expression, and his frohawk is proof. This hybrid between an afro and a mohawk lets his curls stand tall while the sides stay cleanly faded or sometimes designed. Whether he adds color, patterns, or both, Pogba’s hair is a celebration of identity. It’s the ultimate cut for anyone with natural texture who wants to make a bold, creative statement while keeping the base look tight and defined.
Neymar – Short Curly Hair Fade
Neymar’s shorter curly fade is one of his more mature hair choices—but still has that flair. The sides are faded to the skin, keeping things sleek, while the top is left curly and slightly longer. This contrast adds depth and motion, giving his face more character. It’s a perfect example of how to embrace your natural texture while keeping things modern and clean. Throw in a little curl cream, and you’re golden.
Kevin Trapp – Slick Back with Short Sides
Kevin Trapp’s hairstyle blends classic masculinity with European sophistication. His slick back features a high-shine finish that’s neatly combed straight to the rear, paired with clean, cropped sides. It’s the kind of look that says, “I’m ready for business”—whether that’s saving goals or walking into a high-end fashion event. The magic here lies in the contrast: volume and sleekness on top, tight and tidy on the sides. It suits guys with naturally straight or wavy hair and works especially well with facial hair for a rugged, polished vibe.
Mohamed Salah – Buzz Cut Fade
Mo Salah keeps it simple, sharp, and incredibly practical with his buzz cut fade. The closely cropped style complements his strong facial features and draws attention to his signature beard. The fade, often mid or low, adds that fresh, clean finish without looking overly styled. It’s a no-fuss cut that stays sharp even after 90 minutes of full-throttle football. Great for athletes or anyone who wants a timeless cut that’s low-maintenance and effortlessly masculine.
Sergio Ramos – Slicked Back Undercut
Sergio Ramos blends edge and elegance with his slicked-back undercut. This style is all about volume and control—his thick hair is brushed smoothly back while the undercut creates a bold contrast on the sides. It gives him that fierce, commanding presence both on and off the pitch. Ramos often pairs this look with a thick beard or rugged stubble, making it a go-to for guys who want to look assertive and stylish at the same time.
Joao Felix – Messy Medium Hair
Joao Felix channels youthful energy with his messy medium-length cut. The hair is left slightly long on top and around the ears, with a natural wave that gives it a soft, undone texture. It’s casual, carefree, and charming—a perfect reflection of his playful yet focused presence on the field. The great part? This cut works best when it’s not overly styled. A bit of mousse or sea salt spray brings out the volume and texture, giving off effortless cool.
Son Heung-min – Off-Center Part with Low Taper
Son Heung-min rocks a subtle off-center part paired with a low taper that adds definition without being flashy. His hair is medium in length, smooth in texture, and always impeccably styled—usually with a bit of volume and movement. This look balances Korean grooming trends with classic Western styling. It’s flattering for most face shapes and works well in both casual and formal settings. If you want a versatile, clean look that still feels modern, Son’s cut is the one to watch.
Declan Rice – Full Brush Back with Mid Taper Fade
Declan Rice keeps it smart and masculine with a full brush-back hairstyle that flows into a mid taper fade. The top is full and rich, brushed back with a natural matte finish, giving him a grounded yet athletic appearance. The mid fade blends smoothly into his neckline and sides, adding sharpness without taking away from the natural movement on top. It’s the perfect hybrid of old-school charm and new-school sharpness.
Paulo Dybala – Messy Comb Over
Paulo Dybala’s messy comb over toes the line between sophistication and boyish charm. The hair is combed to the side but not too tightly, allowing strands to fall naturally and create texture. A subtle fade or tapered side keeps the cut from looking too heavy. The best part of this style? It’s extremely flexible—perfect for date nights, photo ops, or just kicking back. Dybala’s haircut is for the guy who wants to look stylish but not like he spent an hour in front of the mirror.
Trent Alexander-Arnold – Short Afro Fade
Trent keeps his hair clean and cultural with a short afro fade that highlights his natural texture. The afro on top is low-maintenance but still full of personality, while the sides are faded tight to the skin for a crisp edge. It’s a great look for Black men who want something fresh and expressive without going overboard. Line-ups around the hairline and temples give it extra definition, making it perfect for both casual wear and game-day confidence.
Jordan Henderson – Side Swept Hair with Low Drop Fade
Jordan Henderson’s cut features classic gentleman vibes with a modern touch. His side-swept top is long enough to comb and style neatly, while the low drop fade contours the shape of his head, providing a snug, clean profile. This cut is ideal for guys who appreciate a timeless, controlled look without it feeling stiff. The side sweep adds a bit of flair, and the fade keeps it contemporary. Pair it with a clean shave or light stubble, and you’ve got a real leader’s look.
Weston McKennie – Kinky Curls with Faded Sides
Weston embraces his natural texture with short kinky curls on top and sharply faded sides. His style is all about embracing identity and keeping things practical at the same time. The curls are trimmed to a comfortable length—enough to show definition without becoming hard to manage—while the skin fade adds structure and edge. It’s the perfect blend of freedom and form. Use curl cream or moisturizer to keep it healthy and bouncy.
Virgil van Dijk – Low Bun
Virgil’s long hair is always on point—and his signature low bun is both elegant and intimidating. This style keeps his long, straight locks tied back at the nape of his neck, offering a minimalist, functional style that works just as well on the pitch as it does at fashion events. It takes patience to grow hair this long and discipline to maintain it, but Virgil proves it pays off. For men seeking a sleek, controlled, and bold long hairstyle, this is top-tier inspiration.
Antoine Griezmann – Textured Long Flow
Antoine Griezmann has flirted with many hairstyles, but his textured long flow stands out for its surfer-meets-artist aesthetic. His medium-to-long locks are left wavy and soft, often pushed behind the ears or parted slightly in the middle. This gives him a laid-back yet stylish appearance, perfect for creative souls or anyone who’s tired of structured styles. Add a touch of leave-in conditioner, and you’re living the Griezmann vibe.
Kylian Mbappe – Buzz Cut Fade
Kylian Mbappe keeps his look neat, youthful, and intensely focused with a no-nonsense buzz cut fade. The short length makes the face the main event, and the skin fade gives it a razor-sharp outline. It’s an extremely easy cut to maintain, perfect for guys who don’t like to fuss with their hair but still want to look polished. It pairs well with active lifestyles and works across all face shapes.
Cristiano Ronaldo – Slick Back Fade
CR7’s slick back fade is equal parts glamour and grit. The top is full, slicked back with precision and a bit of shine, while the sides fade down cleanly to accentuate his chiseled features. This haircut is iconic and power-packed—just like the man himself. It’s best for guys with thick, straight hair and a bit of time to style. But the result? Pure star power.
Jude Bellingham – Short Afro Taper Fade with Line Up
Jude Bellingham rocks a well-groomed short afro with a soft taper and a razor-sharp line-up. His style is youthful, athletic, and culturally expressive. The taper fade around the ears and neck makes the haircut pop, while the crisp lines along the forehead and temples frame the face with precision. Great for young men who want to keep it real and respectful to their roots while looking sharp.
Rodri – Textured Ivy League with Tapered Sides
Rodri’s take on the Ivy League cut is classic with a twist. His thick, dark hair is styled with texture and slight movement, allowing for a neat side part and a voluminous top. The tapered sides give the cut a more contemporary, European edge. This style works well in the office, on dates, or at a wedding—it’s smart, stylish, and universally flattering.
Vinicius Jr. – Kinky Afro Curls with High Skin Fade
Vinicius Jr. embraces his natural curl pattern with a high-contrast look: full, shaped afro curls on top and a high skin fade around the sides. It’s bold, fresh, and full of personality—just like his playing style. The key to this cut is maintenance: regular trims, curl cream, and moisture are essential to keep the curls tight and the fade sharp.
Erling Haaland – Long Ponytail with Shaved Sides
Haaland’s warrior-like ponytail with cleanly shaved sides is a power move. It channels Viking energy and raw dominance, which fits his on-field persona perfectly. The long top is tied back tightly into a ponytail or bun, while the sides remain ultra-short for maximum contrast. This style isn’t for everyone—but for the bold and brave, it’s pure charisma.
Stephan El Shaarawy – Faux Hawk Fade
El Shaarawy’s iconic faux hawk is edgy, bold, and unforgettable. With hair rising sharply at the center and fading into the sides, this look screams attitude. It’s great for guys who want something dramatic but still wearable. Keep the styling wax handy—this look needs volume and hold. If you want a hairstyle that turns heads on the street or at the stadium, this is it.
Most Famous Footballer Hairstyles
From Beckham’s textured charm to Haaland’s fearless ponytail, footballers have turned their hair into personal trademarks. Whether you’re aiming to switch things up or just searching for that perfect blend of boldness and style, these soccer-inspired cuts are full of personality and power.
Styling Tips to Keep Your Soccer Haircut Fresh
1. Regular Trims Are Key
Most soccer haircuts — especially fades, tapers, and undercuts — require regular upkeep to keep the lines sharp and the style neat. Aim for a trim every 2-4 weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows.
2. Invest in Quality Hair Products
The right products can make or break your style. For textured cuts like Messi’s spiky crew or Toni Kroos’ undercut, lightweight pomades, waxes, or styling creams work wonders without weighing your hair down.
3. Keep Your Hair Clean and Healthy
Soccer players sweat a lot, and so will you. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep your scalp healthy and hair strong. Consider a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove product buildup.
4. Use Heat Protection for Longer Styles
If you rock longer hairstyles like Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s flowing locks or Erling Haaland’s ponytail, protect your hair from heat damage by using heat protectant sprays before blow-drying or styling tools.
5. Experiment with Styling Tools
A quality hairdryer, a good brush, or a fine-tooth comb can help you master your look. For slicked-back styles like Cristiano Ronaldo’s fade, a comb and a bit of water or styling gel will be your best friends.
Conclusion
Whether you’re chasing the slick elegance of a Cristiano Ronaldo fade or the bold, creative flair of a Paul Pogba cut, soccer player hairstyles offer tons of inspiration for every hair type and personality. The key to pulling off these looks is not just copying the style, but maintaining it with the right cuts, care, and products.
So go ahead, pick your favorite soccer star haircut and make it your own. With the right styling and a little confidence, you’ll be turning heads on and off the pitch in no time!
FAQs
Q1: How do I choose the right soccer player haircut for my face shape?
Choosing the right haircut depends on your face shape and hair type. For round faces, styles with height on top like Messi’s spiky crew cut or De Bruyne’s thick brush back can add length. For square or angular faces, textured cuts such as Beckham’s short textured style or Xhaka’s side part fade work great. Always ask your barber to adapt the style to fit you perfectly.
Q2: How often should I get a haircut to maintain these soccer player hairstyles?
Haircuts involving fades, tapers, or sharp lines, like Hazard’s crew cut fade or Pogba’s Frohawk, need trimming every 2-3 weeks to look fresh. Longer hairstyles like Ibrahimovic’s long hair or Haaland’s ponytail grow out more slowly but still require regular trims to avoid looking unkempt.
Q3: What hair products do professional soccer players use to style their hair?
Most use lightweight pomades, hair waxes, or gels that provide hold without stiffness. Pomades like Layrite and Suavecito are favorites for shine and control. For a matte or textured look, hair clay or matte paste works well to add volume and definition.
Q4: Can I get these soccer player haircuts if I have curly or thick hair?
Definitely! Players like Neymar and Vinicius Jr. rock their natural curls with styles like short curly hair fades or kinky afro fades. The secret is to visit a barber skilled in cutting curly hair to manage volume and shape.
Q5: Are these soccer hairstyles suitable for kids and teenagers?
Yes, many styles such as Mohamed Salah’s buzz cut fade or Eden Hazard’s crew cut fade are easy to maintain and perfect for young players. Longer or more styled cuts may require more upkeep, so simpler cuts are recommended for kids.
Q6: How can I style a slick back fade like Cristiano Ronaldo at home?
Start with short sides and longer top hair. Apply a strong-hold gel or pomade and comb your hair straight back. Blow-drying while combing back adds volume and keeps the look sharp and sleek.
Q7: What’s the difference between a fade and a taper haircut?
A fade gradually blends hair from short to shorter near the neck and sides, sometimes down to the skin, while a taper shortens hair near the neckline and ears but keeps more length overall. Both are popular in soccer hairstyles for clean, sharp looks.
Q8: Which soccer haircut is best for thin hair?
Styles that add texture and volume, like Toni Kroos’s undercut or Joao Felix’s messy medium hair, work well for thin hair. Avoid very short fades that can emphasize thinning.
Q9: How can I maintain a fade haircut to keep it looking sharp?
Regular visits to the barber every 2-3 weeks are crucial. At home, keep the edges clean with a trimmer and avoid heavy product buildup by washing hair frequently.
Q10: What hairstyle is most popular among soccer stars right now?
Fade haircuts combined with textured tops, such as Pogba’s Frohawk or Hazard’s crew cut fade, remain hugely popular. Also, longer hairstyles like Ibrahimovic’s or Haaland’s ponytail are making a comeback.
Q11: How do I style messy hair like Joao Felix or Paulo Dybala?
Use a light texturizing spray or sea salt spray on damp hair, then scrunch and tousle hair with your fingers. Finish with a matte clay or paste to hold the style without stiffness.
Q12: Can I get a soccer player hairstyle if I have very curly hair?
Yes! Many players embrace curls. Styles like Vinicius Jr.’s kinky afro curls with a high skin fade or Weston McKennie’s faded kinky curls show how curly hair can look sharp and stylish.
Q13: Are middle part hairstyles like Héctor Bellerín’s mullet still trendy?
Middle part hairstyles are definitely having a moment, especially with modern twists like Bellerín’s mullet. It’s a bold choice that suits those wanting to stand out.
Q14: How do I grow out my hair to get a long hairstyle like Zlatan Ibrahimovic or Erling Haaland?
Patience is key. Regular trims to keep ends healthy and using nourishing hair products to prevent breakage will help your hair grow longer and stronger.
Q15: Which soccer hairstyle is easiest to maintain daily?
Buzz cuts and crew cuts like Mohamed Salah’s buzz cut fade or Eden Hazard’s crew cut fade require minimal styling and are perfect for low maintenance.
Q16: How do I get a clean lineup like Jude Bellingham’s short afro taper fade?
Ask your barber for sharp edges around the hairline and neck with a precise fade. Using a razor or trimmer at home can help maintain the look between barber visits.
Q17: What’s the best haircut for a sporty look off the field?
Sporty but stylish cuts like Kevin De Bruyne’s thick brush back or Sergio Ramos’s slicked back undercut balance professionalism with athletic edge.
Q18: Can I wear a ponytail like Erling Haaland if I have thin hair?
If your hair is thin, a ponytail might be tricky but not impossible. Using volumizing products and growing your hair out can help create a fuller look.
Q19: How do I protect my hair while playing soccer?
Wear sweatbands to keep hair away from your face and wash hair soon after playing to remove sweat and dirt. Use lightweight conditioners to keep hair hydrated.
Q20: What are the trending hair colors for soccer players?
Natural colors dominate, but some players experiment with blond highlights or dyed tips to add flair, as seen occasionally on Paul Pogba or Antoine Griezmann.
