Below is a compilation of the ten fastest athletes in Premier League history, drawn from official records since their tracking initiation.
These individuals have demonstrated remarkable velocity on the field, establishing themselves as some of the quickest competitors in Premier League annals.
Their capacity to swiftly accelerate and sustain rapid velocities has proven pivotal to their team’s success, profoundly impacting their overall performance.
Statistics per Premier League – correct as of 09/02/24
Micky van de Ven – Tottenham vs Brentford (23/24)
Speed: 37.38km/h
Micky van de Ven has swiftly etched his name into Premier League history, clocking an impressive speed of 37.38 km/h against Brentford in late January, as he dashed back to neutralize the threat. Since his transfer from Wolfsburg, the ambitious Dutchman has been a cornerstone of Tottenham Hotspur’s revitalized squad whenever he’s been fit.
In his inaugural campaign in north London, Van de Ven is gradually asserting himself as one of the premier centre-backs in the league, with his rapid recovery pace proving instrumental in a high-press defensive setup on numerous occasions.
While already renowned for his pace in the Bundesliga, where he ranked as the ninth fastest player in the division’s history, his exceptional speed has garnered a whole new legion of admirers.
Kyle Walker – Man City vs Everton (22/23)
Speed: 37.21 km/h
Known for his explosive bursts up the wing or for executing crucial last-ditch tackles and clearances, Kyle Walker stands out as the prime choice when discussing the fastest Premier League players. Despite registering a speed of only 35.3km/h this season, his sprint against Everton in the 2022/23 season eclipsed that mark by a significant margin.
Reaching just over the 37km/h threshold, the former Tottenham Hotspur star became the fastest player in the history of the top flight – a record held since the inception of official records – until van de Ven came along to shake things up.
At 33 years old, the Sheffield native remains an indispensable figure in Pep Guardiola’s dominant Manchester City squad, with the Spaniard well aware of persistent interest from perennial Bundesliga champions during the summer transfer window.
Chiedozie Ogbene – Luton vs Fulham (23/24)
Speed: 36.93 km/h
In the modern football landscape, Luton Town’s credibility was initially questioned upon their promotion to the Premier League. However, the team from Kenilworth Road has surprised many by causing chaos and unsettling some of the league’s top sides, transforming their cherished home ground into a daunting venue for visiting teams.
Much of their success can be credited to the blistering pace of Chiedozie Ogbene, who reached a remarkable speed of 36.93 km/h earlier in the season against Fulham. The winger, who openly acknowledges studying Usain Bolt’s running technique, has become a vital player for manager Rob Edwards, particularly since the start of the new year. His exceptional speed allows him to capitalize on loose balls, turning them into golden opportunities for his team.
Pedro Neto – Wolves vs Luton (23/24)
Speed: 36.86 km/h
Pedro Neto possesses an abundance of skills, but his exceptional speed stands out without question. With technical prowess, a calm finishing touch, and remarkable pace, it’s no wonder he’s attracting interest from top English clubs, particularly Manchester United.
The Portuguese standout demonstrated his speed with a sprint of 36.86 km/h against Luton earlier in the 2023/24 season, when he swiftly intercepted a loose ball from Hatters captain Tom Lockyer. Yet, this instance is just one of many showcases of his breathtaking pace. Throughout a season where Wolves have frequently relied on him, Neto has consistently risen to the occasion.
Dominik szoboszlai – Liverpool vs Wolves (23/24)
Speed: 36.76 km/h
Just trailing behind Neto, Dominik Szoboszlai clocked a sprint speed of 36.76 km/h while vigorously attempting to dispossess the Wolves player. Displaying defensive grit in his game, the 23-year-old has undeniably won over the loyal supporters at Anfield.
When Jurgen Klopp and his team made a significant investment in the Hungarian central midfielder over the summer, they anticipated a composed and intelligent presence in midfield, occasionally unleashing powerful shots – his demonstrated pace has been an unexpected bonus. Brimming with energy, Szoboszlai has proven to be a valuable addition in today’s football landscape, showcasing a wide array of technical skills.
Dara O’Shea – Burnley vs Crystal Palace (23/24)
Speed: 36.73 km/h
An unexpected addition to the squad? Perhaps. A deserving addition? Absolutely. Amidst what has been a challenging season for Vincent Kompany’s Burnley team, Dara O’Shea – recruited from West Bromwich Albion in the summer of 2023 – has emerged as a ray of hope for the Belgian manager.
As anticipated, the Clarets have faced their fair share of defensive challenges against formidable opponents like Manchester City and Arsenal. O’Shea’s speed – reaching 26.73 km/h in a match against Crystal Palace – has proved to be immensely valuable, and Burnley may well credit him if they manage to stave off relegation by May.
Antonio Rudiger – Chelsea vs Brighton (21/22)
Speed: 36.72 km/h
No novice to kicking into high gear when necessary, Antonio Rudiger recorded an impressive speed of 36.72 km/h during the 2021/2022 season while representing Chelsea against Brighton & Hove Albion. Despite his unconventional physique, the Berlin-born defender’s long limbs have made him a formidable presence in the heart of West London’s defense, bolstered by his exceptional strength.
His rapid acceleration often bailed himself – and occasionally his teammates – out of precarious situations in the blink of an eye. One moment, an opposition striker seemed poised to score, and the next, Rudiger thundered in from behind, determined to regain possession. Considering his reputation as one of the premier center-backs in global football, it’s hard not to imagine Mauricio Pochettino longing for the 30-year-old’s pace this season.
Brennan Johnson – Nottingham Forest vs Man City (22/23)
Speed: 36.70 km/h
During Nottingham Forest’s battle for survival last season, Brennan Johnson showcased his speed, particularly evident in a memorable performance against eventual champions Manchester City in a 1-1 draw. The Welshman, now with Tottenham, stood out as one of the few bright spots for Steve Cooper during their challenging 2022/23 campaign, notably outpacing Mykhailo Mudryk as the fastest player of that season.
His transfer to North London came as a surprise to many, but with Harry Kane’s departure, Ange Postecoglou sought additional firepower. Johnson undoubtedly possesses that quality, but it’s his lightning-fast pace that truly sets him apart from the competition.
Anthony Gordon – Newcastle vs Burnley (23/24)
Speed: 36.68 km/h
There was widespread surprise when Newcastle United, amidst their extensive squad overhaul, secured Anthony Gordon’s services from Goodison Park. The £45 million acquisition was an unexpected move, but the 22-year-old Liverpool native has swiftly become a pivotal player for Eddie Howe and his squad.
Gordon hasn’t just contributed with seven goals and assists each across various competitions; his exceptional speed has consistently troubled opposition defenses. Week after week, the winger can be seen effortlessly leaving defenders trailing behind. His fastest recorded sprint occurred against Burnley at the end of September, clocking an impressive speed of 36.68 km/h. Truly remarkable.
Amadou Onana – Everton vs Liverpool (23/24)
Speed: 36.65 km/h
Just like O’Shea’s surprising inclusion, Amadou Onana’s presence on the list comes as a shock to many. Nonetheless, he secures the tenth spot with a speed of 36.65 km/h recorded against arch-rivals Liverpool. Unfortunately for the Belgian midfield maestro and his teammates, they ended up on the losing side in that particular game.
