Speed is more than just a number; it’s a game-changer that can make or break a match. It’s what helps players dodge defenders, set up goals, and snatch the ball back when all seems lost. Whether trying to score a goal or prevent one, speed gives you more options, opportunities, and ways to influence the game. So, who is the fastest soccer player in the world right now?
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of soccer speedsters, and explore how their speed impacts the game, how it’s measured, and even how they train to maintain their blistering pace.
Who is the Fastest Soccer Player
Some of the quickest soccer players have changed the game with their lightning-fast pace and astonishing speed.
1. Kylian Mbappe (38 km/h)
- Nationality: French
- Age: 24
- Top Speed: 38 km/h
- Position: Forward
- League: Ligue 1
- Club: Paris Saint-Germain
At 38km/h, Kylian Mbappe is the fastest soccer player in the world. Imagine being a defender and seeing Mbappé charging at you with that kind of speed. It’s not only intimidating but also nearly impossible to defend against. His speed allows him to create space, beat defenders, and get into goal-scoring positions that other players can only dream of. He knows when to accelerate, when to decelerate, and how to use his speed to his advantage. It’s not just about running fast; it’s about running smart.
2. Kyle Walker (37.8 km/h)
- Nationality: English
- Age: 32 years old
- Top Speed: 37.8 km/h
- Position: Right-back
- League: Premier League
- Club: Manchester City
Walker is a right-back who is known for his pace and athleticism. He has been recorded to have a top speed of 37.8 km/h in a match against Everton in 2022. He joined Manchester City in 2017 and has since won four Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and three League Cups. He has also been a regular starter for the England national team, winning 66 caps.
3. Aaron Wan-Bissaka (37.4 km/h)
- Nationality: English
- Age: 24
- Top Speed: 37.4 km/h (23.3 mph)
- Position: Right-back
- League: Premier League
- Club: Manchester United
Wan-Bissaka is an English right-back who plays for Manchester United and the England national team. He is known for his pace, tackling ability, and defensive skills. He is one of the best one-on-one defenders right now. Wan-Bissaka reached 37.594 km/h in a 2019 Manchester United-West Ham match.
4. Antonio Rudiger (36.7 km/h)
- Nationality: German
- Age: 29
- Top Speed: 36.7 km/h
- Position: Center Back
- League: La Liga
- Club: Real Madrid
Antonio Rudiger is a German powerhouse who’s currently playing for Real Madrid. He clocked a jaw-dropping speed of 36.7 km/h in the Premier League before making his move. What sets him apart is not just his speed but also his aggressive defending. He is currently the fastest defender in the world of soccer.
5. Mykhailo Mudryk (36.63 km/h)
- Nationality: Ukrainian
- Age: 22
- Top Speed: 36.63 km/h
- Position: Winger
- League: Premier League
- Club: Chelsea
Mykhailo Mudryk, a young Ukrainian talent, has been turning heads in the Premier League. He joined Chelsea in January 2023 and immediately made an impact with his top speed of 36.63 km/h.
6. Anthony Gordon (36.61 km/h)
- Nationality: English
- Age: 21
- Top Speed: 36.61 km/h
- Position: Forward
- League: Premier League
- Club: Newcastle United
Anthony Gordon is another young gun showing off his speed in the Premier League. Playing for Everton, he’s reached a top speed of 36.61 km/h. Despite the club’s struggles, he’s a shining star. He is now a regular starter for Newcastle United.
7. Ousmane Dembele (36.6 km/h)
- Nationality: French
- Age: 25
- Top Speed: 36.6 km/h
- Position: Forward
- League: Ligue 1
- Club: Paris Saint-German
Ousmane Dembele is a French forward who’s been dazzling fans with his speed and skill. Playing for Barcelona, he’s hit a top speed of 36.6 km/h. After overcoming a series of injuries, he made a comeback and joined PSG during the 2023 summer transfer window.
8. Adama Traore (36.6 km/h)
- Nationality: Spanish
- Age: 26
- Top Speed: 36.6 km/h
- Position: Winger
- League: Premier League
- Club: Fulham
Adama Traore, another Barcelona ex-player, is a beast on the field. He’s clocked the same top speed as Dembele, 36.6 km/h, and his physicality is just as intimidating. He’s a player who can change the game in a heartbeat. Adama Traore currently plays for Fulham. He joined the club on a free transfer in August 2023.
9. Karim Adeyemi (36.6 km/h)
- Nationality: German
- Age: 21
- Top Speed: 36.6 km/h
- Position: Forward
- League: Bundesliga
- Club: Borussia Dortmund
Karim Adeyemi is a German striker who plays for Borussia Dortmund. He joined the club on a €30 million transfer in January 2022. He has been making waves in the Bundesliga. Playing for Borussia Dortmund, he’s clocked an impressive top speed of 36.6 km/h. His speed opens up spaces and allows his team to play through the lines, making him a crucial asset for Dortmund.
10. Mohamed Salah (36.6 km/h)
- Nationality: Egyptian
- Age: 30
- Top Speed: 36.6 km/h
- Position: Right Winger
- League: Premier League
- Club: Liverpool
Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian King, is a name that needs no introduction. Playing for Liverpool, he’s clocked a top speed of 36.6 km/h. Since joining the Reds in 2017, he’s been a phenomenon, scoring goals left and right. His speed on the right wing is a game-changer for Liverpool, allowing him to beat defenders with ease and make darting runs that are hard to defend against.
11. Darwin Nunez (36.53 km/h)
- Nationality: Uruguayan
- Age: 23
- Top Speed: 36.53 km/h
- Position: Striker
- League: Premier League
- Club: Liverpool
Darwin Nunez is another Liverpool player who’s been turning heads. He recorded a top speed of 36.53 km/h in a Premier League game against Fulham. Although he had a slow start to his Liverpool career, his underlying stats were promising. There were rumors that he even hit a top speed of 38 km/h, but the Premier League later clarified those.
12. Moussa Diaby (36.52 km/h)
- Nationality: French
- Age: 23
- Top Speed: 36.52 km/h
- Position: Winger
- League: Premier League
- Club: Aston Villa
Moussa Diaby, a 23-year-old French winger, is another speedster in the Premier League. Playing for Bayer Leverkusen, he’s clocked a top speed of 36.52 km/h. His agility on the field helps him make quick transitions, pulling defenders out of their positions and creating space for his team to exploit. He currently plays for Aston Villa after joining the club on a £51.9 million transfer in July 2023.
Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About the Number 10 in Soccer
13. Rafael Leao (36.5 km/h)
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Age: 23
- Top Speed: 36.5 km/h
- Position: Winger
- League: Serie A
- Club: AC Milan
Rafael Leão is a Portuguese winger who plays for AC Milan. He has been with the club since 2019, after signing from Lille for €29.5 million. Leão is known for his speed, dribbling skills, and finishing ability. He has been clocked at speeds of up to 36.5 km/h. In the 2022-23 season, Leão was a key player in Milan’s Serie A title win. He made 34 appearances, scoring 14 goals and providing 10 assists. He was also named the Serie A Player of the Season.
14. Achraf Hakimi (36.48 km/h)
- Nationality: Moroccan
- Age: 23
- Top Speed: 36.48 km/h
- Position: Right Back
- League: Ligue 1
- Club: PSG
Achraf Hakimi has evolved into a top-notch full-back at PSG. His speed and intelligence on both ends of the field make him a fan favorite. He’s clocked a jaw-dropping top speed of 36.48 km/h, making him a lethal weapon during counter-attacks. Hakimi is considered to be one of the best right-backs in the world and is expected to continue to be a key player for PSG for many years to come.
15. Federico Valverde (36.3 km/h)
- Nationality: Uruguayan
- Age: 24
- Top Speed: 36.3 km/h
- Position: Midfielder
- League: La Liga
- Club: Real Madrid
Federico Valverde has been a revelation for Real Madrid this season. His versatility and speed, clocked at 36.3 km/h, make him a key player in both defensive and attacking setups. Valverde started his senior career with Peñarol in 2015, before moving to Real Madrid in 2016. He has since made over 120 appearances for the club, winning two La Liga titles, two UEFA Champions League titles, and one FIFA Club World Cup.
16. Erling Haaland (36.22 km/h)
- Nationality: Norwegian
- Age: 22
- Top Speed: 36.22 km/h
- Position: Striker
- League: Premier League
- Club: Manchester City
Erling Haaland is a complete package of speed and strength. He’s been a goal machine for Manchester City, clocking a top speed of 36.22 km/h in a match against Brighton. His speed allows him to dominate defenders and be a constant threat on counter-attacks.
17. Nuno Tavares (36.2 km/h)
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Age: 22
- Top Speed: 36.2 km/h
- Position: Left Back
- League: Premier League
- Club: Nottingham Forest
Nuno Tavares has significantly impacted Marseille after joining them on loan from Arsenal. His agility and quickness, clocked at 36.2 km/h, make him one of Europe’s top full-backs. Tavares is currently on loan at Nottingham Forest for the 2023-24 season. He will be looking to impress Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and earn a place in the Gunners’ first team.
18. Alphonso Davies (36.20 km/h)
- Nationality: Canadian
- Age: 21
- Top Speed: 36.20 km/h
- Position: Left Back
- League: Bundesliga
- Club: Bayern Munich
Alphonso Davies is a name that resonates with speed and skill. The Canadian left-back has clocked a top speed of 36.20 km/h. His dribbling and speed make him a unique asset for Bayern Munich, capable of changing the game’s tempo at will.
19. Dennis Zakaria (36.09 km/h)
- Nationality: Swiss
- Age: 25
- Top Speed: 36.09 km/h
- Position: Midfielder
- League: Ligue 1
- Club: Monaco
Dennis Zakaria is a Swiss professional footballer who is a defensive midfielder for Ligue 1 club Monaco and the Switzerland national team. He has already made a mark by recording a 36.09 km/h speed. Zakaria is a versatile midfielder who can play in various positions, including defensive midfield, central midfield, and box-to-box midfield.
20. Timo Werner (36.0 km/h)
- Nationality: German
- Age: 27
- Top Speed: 36.0 km/h
- Position: Forward
- League: Bundesliga
- Club: RB Leipzig
Timo Werner is a German professional footballer who plays as a forward for the Bundesliga club RB Leipzig and the German national team. Playing for Chelsea, he’s clocked a top speed of 36.0 km/h. While he’s had his ups and downs, his speed is undeniable. He’s a player who can break away from defenders in a flash, creating scoring opportunities for his team.
21. Sheraldo Becker (35.97 km/h)
- Nationality: Dutch
- Age: 27
- Top Speed: 35.97 km/h
- Position: Winger
- League: Bundesliga
- Club: Union Berlin
In 2018, Sheraldo Becker signed for Union Berlin. He has made 119 appearances for Union Berlin, scoring 34 goals. Becker is a fast and skilled winger known for his dribbling ability. He is also a good finisher. Becker’s top speed is 35.97 km/h. He is one of the fastest players in the Bundesliga.
22. Rafa Silva (35.9 km/h)
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Age: 28
- Top Speed: 35.9 km/h
- Position: Winger
- League: Primeira Liga
- Club: Benfica
Rafa Silva, the Portuguese winger, has been a standout player for Benfica. He’s clocked a top speed of 35.9 km/h. His quickness and dribbling ability make him a constant threat on the wing, and he’s been a key player in Benfica’s recent successes.
23. Micky van de Ven (35.87 km/h)
- Nationality: Dutch
- Age: 21
- Top Speed: 35.87 km/h
- Position: Center Back
- League: Premier League
- Club: Tottenham
Micky van de Ven is a young Dutch center-back. Playing for Volendam, he’s clocked a top speed of 35.87 km/h. His speed allows him to recover quickly in defensive situations, making him a valuable asset for his team. In August 2023, van de Ven moved to Tottenham Hotspur for a fee of €40 million.
24. Theo Hernandez (35.7 km/h)
- Nationality: French
- Age: 24
- Top Speed: 35.7 km/h
- Position: Left Back
- League: Serie A
- Club: AC Milan
Theo Hernandez has been a key player for AC Milan, especially in their European campaigns. He’s clocked a top speed of 35.7 km/h. His ability to join the attack and deliver quality crosses makes him one of the best full-backs in the world right now.
Also Read: How Long is Halftime in Soccer – Answered by a Soccer Coach
25. Alejandro Grimaldo (35.5 km/h)
- Nationality: Spain
- Age: 27
- Top Speed: 35.5 km/h
- Position: Left-back
- League: La Liga
- Club: SL Benfica
Alejandro Grimaldo is a Spanish left-back who plays for SL Benfica. He is known for his pace and dribbling ability, which he uses to get past defenders and create chances for his teammates. He is also a good crosser of the ball. He has a top speed of 35.5 km/h (22.1 mph).
26. Rafa Mir (35.4 km/h)
- Nationality: Spain
- Age: 25
- Top Speed: 35.4 km/h
- Position: Forward
- League: La Liga
- Club: Sevilla FC
Rafa Mir is a Spanish forward who plays for Sevilla FC. He is a powerful and athletic player who is also good at finishing. He is a clinical striker who is capable of scoring goals in a variety of ways. He has a top speed of 35.4 km/h (22.0 mph).
27. Nuno Mendes (35.3 km/h)
- Nationality: Portugal
- Age: 20
- Top Speed: 35.3 km/h
- Position: Left-back
- League: Ligue 1
- Club: Paris Saint-Germain
Nuno Mendes is a Portuguese left-back who plays for Paris Saint-Germain. He is a talented and versatile player who is also good at defending. He has a top speed of 35.3 km/h (22.0 mph).
28. Federico Chiesa (35.1 km/h)
- Nationality: Italy
- Age: 24
- Top Speed: 35.1 km/h
- Position: Winger
- League: Serie A
- Club: Juventus
Federico Chiesa is an Italian winger who plays for Juventus. He is a quick and skillful player who is also good at scoring goals. He is a creative player who is always looking to make things happen and is a threat to score from anywhere on the pitch. He has a top speed of 35.1 km/h (21.8 mph).
29. Sergino Dest (35.0 km/h)
- Nationality: United States
- Age: 22
- Top Speed: 35.0 km/h
- Position: Right-back
- League: Bundesliga
- Club: Bayern Munich
Dest is a young and talented right-back who is known for his pace, dribbling ability, and crossing skills. He has represented the United States at the youth and senior international levels.
30. Bukayo Saka (35.0 km/h)
- Nationality: England
- Age: 21
- Top Speed: 35.0 km/h
- Position: Winger
- League: Premier League
- Club: Arsenal
Bukayo Saka is an English winger who plays for Arsenal. He is a versatile player who is also good at creating chances. He is a good dribbler and passer, always looking to make the right decision in the final third. He has a top speed of 35.0 km/h (21.7 mph).
The Power of Speed
Speed is like the secret sauce in soccer. That extra edge can make the difference between a good and great player. In the modern game, speed is not just about running fast; it’s about how you use that speed to your advantage. Speed offers several benefits:
- Quick Ball Retrieval: Being fast allows you to get to the ball quicker than your opponent, even if you’re starting from the same point or behind.
- Defensive Prowess: Speed enhances your ability to make successful tackles and interceptions. Imagine being a defender and catching up to a forward who thought he had a clear path to the goal. Talk about a game-changer!
- Creating Space: Speed helps you create a gap between you and your opponent, giving you more time on the ball and less pressure from the opposition. This is crucial for playmakers who need that extra second to make a killer pass.
- Energy Conservation: When you’re faster, you can operate at high speeds without maxing out, saving energy for those crucial moments later in the game.
What Kind of Training Do Quicker Football Players Undergo to Stay in Top Condition and Run So Quickly on the Field?
Ever wondered how these soccer players manage to run like the wind? Well, it’s not just natural talent; it’s a lot of hard work and specialized training. These athletes focus on strength, agility, and technique to keep their speed game strong.
- Strength and Power: Weightlifting sessions are a staple. Building muscle strength is crucial for explosive speed.
- Agility Drills: Ladder drills, cone drills, you name it. These exercises improve their ability to change direction quickly, which is super important in a game as dynamic as soccer.
- Endurance Training: Long-distance running helps build stamina. Because what’s the use of speed if you’re gasping for air 20 minutes into the game?
- Technique Refinement: It’s not just about running fast; it’s about running smart. They work on their running, accelerating, and decelerating techniques to make every step count.
How Does Their Speed Benefit Their Team, and What Challenges Do They Face When Playing Against Other Speedy Opponents?
Benefit
- Creates Scoring Opportunities: Fast players can easily break through defensive lines, creating more chances for goals.
- Defensive Asset: Their speed allows them to track back quickly and help out in defensive situations.
- Forces Opponents to Adapt: The opposition has to modify their game plan to contain a fast player, often pulling resources away from other areas.
Challenges
- Mental Game: It’s not just about speed; it’s about outthinking your opponent. Both players have to anticipate each other’s moves.
- Strategic Play: Speed alone won’t cut it. Players must use other skills like dribbling and passing to gain an advantage.
- Adaptability: Facing someone as fast as you forces you to adapt and be more versatile in your approach.
So, while speed is a killer asset, it’s not without its challenges, especially when you’re up against someone who can match your pace. It’s like a high-speed chess game on grass!
Also Read: What is Beep Test in Soccer & How to Prepare for It?
How Speed Can Be Utilized for Offensive and Defensive Purposes
On Offense
- Breaking Defensive Lines: Speed allows players to exploit gaps in the defense, creating one-on-one situations with the goalie.
- Counter-Attacks: Fast players can quickly transition from defense to offense, catching the opposition off guard.
- Drawing Fouls: Speedy players often force defenders into making mistakes, leading to free-kicks and penalties.
On Defense
- Closing Down Space: Quick defenders can reach attackers faster, reducing their chances of a clean shot.
- Recovery: Speed helps defenders get back into position quickly, especially useful during counter-attacks.
- Forcing Errors: Fast defenders can pressure attackers into making mistakes, leading to turnovers.
How is the Speed of Soccer Players Tracked?
Ever wondered how we know these jaw-dropping speed stats? Well, it’s not someone on the sidelines with a stopwatch, I’ll tell you that much. The secret sauce is technology—GPS and accelerometers, to be exact. These little gadgets are tucked into the players’ jerseys and track everything from how fast they’re running to how quickly they stop and start again.
This data is like gold for coaches. They can analyze it to determine how to use each player most effectively. For example, if a player’s speed drops in the second half, they may need more stamina training. Or if they’re not reaching their top speed, they’re better suited for a different position. It’s all about optimizing performance and strategy.
Summing Up on Who is the Fastest Soccer Player
Speed is a crucial element that can’t be ignored in modern soccer. It’s not just about who can run the fastest; it’s about how players use their speed strategically to influence the offensively and defensively. With the help of cutting-edge technology, coaches are now better equipped than ever to harness this asset, making soccer a high-speed chess game that’s as thrilling to play as it is to watch. Whether you’re a player, a coach, or a fan, understanding the role of speed in soccer gives you a whole new lens to appreciate the beautiful game.
Faqs on Who is the Fastest Soccer Player
Is Mbappe the Fastest Player?
Yes, according to the updated data, Kylian Mbappé is indeed the fastest player in the world, clocking in at a jaw-dropping 38 km/h. While there are other speedsters in the game, none have managed to top Mbappé’s record-breaking pace. So, if you’re looking to place a bet on the fastest player, Mbappé is your guy.
Who is Faster Ronaldo or Messi?
Ah, the age-old debate! According to FIFA, Ronaldo’s top speed is around 33.95 km/h (21.1 mph), while Messi’s is approximately 32.5 km/h (20.2 mph). So, Ronaldo takes the cake here, but let’s be real, both are incredibly fast and their playing styles make them unique in their own right.
Who is the Fastest Liverpool Player?
The fastest Liverpool player is currently Mohamed Salah. He has been recorded to have a top speed of 36.6 km/h (22.7 mph) in a match against Arsenal in 2022. Salah is a winger who is known for his pace and dribbling ability. He can get past defenders with ease and create chances for his teammates. He is also a good finisher and has scored many goals for Liverpool.
What is Haaland’s Top Speed?
Erling Haaland is no slouch when it comes to speed. The guy has been clocked at 36.22 km/h, which is very fast, according to his physique. While he may not be the fastest in the Premier League, his combination of speed and finishing ability make him a nightmare for defenders.
What is Neymar’s Top Speed?
The Brazilian sensation Neymar has a top speed of 34.7 km/h. While he may not be breaking any records with that speed, his agility and dribbling skills more than make up for it. He’s a versatile player who can adapt to various positions, making him a valuable asset for any team.
Who is the Fastest Soccer Player in Premier League
The fastest soccer player in the Premier League is currently Kyle Walker. He has been recorded to have a top speed of 37.8 km/h in a match against Everton in 2022.
