The Bundesliga is one of the top leagues in Europe, but has become a little too predictable in recent times, with Bayern Munich having won 11 straight titles.
Regardless, some of the most exciting players in the world have cut their teeth in this league, as well as some of the fastest.
In this blog post, we will look at the top 5 fastest players in the Bundesliga in 2023, and look at how they compare to the all-time fastest, and what their speed brings to their respective sides.
Speedy players bring so many advantages to their teams, and they add an extra dimension, particularly in a league known for its intensity. So, let’s take a look at the top 5 players who have been tearing up the Bundesliga with their terrifying pace in 2023.
5. Jeremie Frimpong - Bayer 04 Leverkusen (35.96 km/h)
Jeremie Frimpong- one of the fastest fullbacks in the world (source: Imago)
Young and dynamic Bayer 04 Leverkusen full-back Jeremie Frimpong kicks off our list with an impressive top speed of 35.96 km/h.
His electrifying pace down the flank has made him a nightmare for opposing defenders, whilst his recovery pace and ability to transition into both defensive and offensive passages of play make him integral to the way Leverkusen set up.
His pace is a big contributing factor to The Black and Reds topping the Bundesliga table at the moment.
4. Eren Dinkçi - 1. FC Heidenheim 1846 (35.97 km/h)
Eren Dinkçi has his best years ahead of him (source: Imago)
Eren Dinkçi of 1. FC Heidenheim 1846 follows closely behind with a top speed just slightly above Frimpong, clocking in at 35.97 km/h.
The forward’s rapid sprints have been instrumental in Heidenheim’s offensive strategies, creating spaces and opportunities in the final third.
Dinkçi’s ability to stretch defenses with his speed adds a dynamic element to his team’s gameplay, and has helped his impressive goal tally of 1 in 2 so far this season, as the loanee will be vying to fire the newly promoted side to safety.
3. Alphonso Davies - Bayern Munich (35.97 km/h)
Alphonso Davies is one of the top three fastest players in the Bundesliga three years in a raw (source: Imago)
Formerly the fastest player in Bundesliga history during the 2019/20 season (36.51 km/h), Canadian Davies remains perhaps the most consistent speedster on this list.
His speed is not just a physical attribute; it’s a tactical asset for Bayern Munich. His ability to cover ground rapidly in both defensive and offensive phases of the game makes him a versatile and indispensable part of the side.
2. Sheraldo Becker - FC Union Berlin (36.57 km/h)
Sheraldo Becker (source: Imago)
With a speed he reached late in the 2022/23 season, Union Berlin frontman and Surinam International Becker scoops the silver medal for fastest Bundesliga player this season.
Becker’s acceleration and pace down the wings have been a nightmare for opposing defenders. A formidable force in one-on-one situations, and possessing a dangerous cross, he is an invaluable asset for Union Berlin’s attacking prowess.
His speed not only makes him a threat individually, but also allows teammates to thrive off his runs as well, pulling defenders out of position, and creating pockets of space.
1. Karim Adeyemi - Borussia Dortmund (36.65 km/h)
Karim Adeyemi Fastest Player in the Bundesliga 2023 (source: Imago)
Dortmund’s German forward has been a key weapon for the perennial Bundesliga runners-up. His pace has helped fill the void left by Erling Haaland’s departure, and he set a new Bundesliga record this year. During the 5-1 thrashing of Freiburg in the 2022/23 season, Adeyemi hit 36.65 km/h, setting a record for the fastest Bundesliga player of all-time!
In the Pantheon of Fastest Ever Footballers
While the players on this list may not surpass the absolute fastest recorded speeds in the history of football, their performances place them among the elite in the modern era. Legends like Arjen Robben and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang have set remarkable records in the league for pace, but with Davies breaking speed records, only to himself be usurped by Adetyemi, it’s clear that the current crop of speedsters is certainly making their mark.
How Speed Benefits Their Teams
The incredible speed of these players brings numerous advantages to their respective teams. Speed not only terrifies defenders but also forces opposing managers to devise specific strategies to counteract their rapid movements. This allows for multiple tactical elements, as well as plenty of flexibility in the process too.
In conclusion, the Bundesliga’s 2022/23 season has showcased a remarkable array of speedsters, with Karim Adeyemi leading the charge, and who knows how long his record might hold for?! As the season unfolds, these players will continue to leave their mark on the league, contributing not only to their individual success but also to the overall excitement and spectacle of Bundesliga football.
