Pace has always been one of the most impressive and defining attributes a player can possess, and it’s something that can add an explosive dimension to any fixture.
In the current premier League season, there have been plenty of pace merchants who have made a huge impact on their side’s fortunes with their speed and acceleration.
There are a handful of players in the Premier League this season who have served up blistering speeds to terrify opponents.
These are players who have distinguished themselves among the fastest on the pitch, reaching astonishing speeds to leave defenders in their wake. So, let’s delve into this list of the five fastest players in the Premier League this season:
5. Alejandro Garnacho - Manchester United (35.01 km)
Alejandro Garnacho (source: Imago)
Wonderkid Alejandro Garnacho has been making waves at Manchester United since breaking into the first team, and his blistering pace is one of the key elements of his game.
Clocking in at an impressive 35.01 km/h, the young forward has showcased his ability to outrun opposition defenders, and has shone in several fixtures for the beleaguered Red Devils, adding an extra dimension to the team’s attack.
4. Rasmus Hojlund - Manchester United (35.45 km/h)
Rasmus Hojlund (source: Imago)
Another speed demon in the Manchester United ranks is new signing Rasmus Hojlund. Despite his struggles in front of goal, the Danish striker has clocked up an impressive 35.45 km/h, with his acceleration and pace adding a potent ingredient to his strength and aerial ability.
If United are going to turn around their fortunes this season, they are going to need to rely on the 20-year-old to lead the line in a more prolific fashion.
3. Adama Traore - Fulham (35.55 km/h)
Adama Traore (source: Imago)
A mainstay on lists of this ilk, Fulham winger Adama Traore is one of the fastest players in the world. The former Wolves and Barcelona speedster is well-known for his electrifying acceleration, rapid sprints, and agility, and this season is no exception.
Traore’s top speed of 35.55 km/h makes him a constant threat on the counter-attack, allowing Fulham to transition swiftly from defense to offense. It’s an essential weapon that should see the club relying on him more this season.
2. Anthony Gordon - Newcastle United (35.63 km/h & 35.67 km/h)
Anthony Gordon (source: Imago)
Anthony Gordon’s double entry in the top five emphasises his exceptional speed and counter attacking verve.
The former Evertonian has become the breakout star of the Magpies’ season, and his stunning pace and acceleration have played a key role in this.
The winger has hit speeds of 35.63 km/h and 35.67 km/h, showcasing his remarkable ability to maintain high velocity over multiple sprints. His goal this season against Liverpool showcased his flair and speed.
1. Dominic Solanke - Bournemouth (36.10 km/h)
Dominic Solanke (source: Imago)
Dominic Solanke claims the top spot as the fastest player in the Premier League for the 2022/23 season, reaching an astonishing speed of 36.10 km/h.
The Bournemouth striker’s pace has been a revelation, catching defenders off guard, and has played a huge role in The Cherries’ excellent form, as well as his own prolific vein of goalscoring.
Despite his impressive speed and form, Solanke hasn’t yet achieved a run swift enough to be included among the all-time fastest footballers.
In the Pantheon of Fastest Ever Footballers
Comparing the current names on this list to some of the fastest ever Premier League players makes for interesting reading.
And whilst they don’t really compare to the absolute fastest records of all time, these are still some pretty impressive speeds.
According to Sportskeeda, the fastest Premier League player of all-time is Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, who clocked a staggering 38 km/h in a 1-0 win over West Ham Utd last season.
How Speed Benefits Their Teams
The blistering pace of these players brings a myriad of advantages to their respective teams. In the Premier League, the fast and frenetic pace of the game lends itself to speedy counter attacks, and this is where fast players become invaluable for transitional play, and creating overloads.
The fast players in this list often create space for their teammates, stretch opposing defenses, and pose a constant attacking threat.
Their ability to break away from defenders not only results in individual success but also unlocks new team dynamics. Managers can deploy these players strategically, knowing that their speed can turn a tight game in an instant.
In conclusion, the 2022/23 Premier League season has showcased some of the fastest players in the history of the competition. From Garnacho’s youthful exuberance to Solanke’s explosive pace, these guys are setting the benchmark for Premier League pace these days.
