The Top 10 Fastest Footballers in 2024: Speed Demons Dominating the Field
In the modern game of football, speed is one of the most lethal assets a player can possess. A player’s pace can turn a defense inside out, break down counter-attacks, and dictate the tempo of the game. As the 2024 season unfolds, some of the fastest players are making headlines not just for their football skills but also for their blistering acceleration and top speeds. This blog takes a detailed look at the top 10 fastest footballers in 2024, celebrating the speed demons who are electrifying stadiums worldwide.
1. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
It’s no surprise that Kylian Mbappé once again tops the list as the fastest footballer in the world. Renowned for his devastating pace, Mbappé has continued to dazzle defenders in 2024, reaching sprint speeds that are jaw-dropping.
Top Speed: 38 km/h (23.61 mph)
Why He’s So Fast:
- Acceleration: Mbappé’s rapid first few steps create instant separation from defenders.
- Technique: His sprinting form is flawless, allowing him to maintain speed without losing balance or control.
- Tactical Awareness: Mbappé knows when and how to exploit his pace, making perfectly timed runs behind defenders.
Mbappé’s pace, combined with his technical prowess, has turned him into an almost unstoppable force at PSG. Whether he’s breaking away on the counter or outrunning full-backs in the Ligue 1 or Champions League, his speed keeps defenders on high alert.
2. Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich)
Alphonso Davies has been a revelation for Bayern Munich since his breakthrough, and 2024 is no different. Known as the “Road Runner” by his teammates, the Canadian full-back’s explosive speed is one of the most valuable assets in Bayern’s arsenal.
Top Speed: 37.6 km/h (23.37 mph)
Why He’s So Fast:
- Acceleration: Davies can go from 0 to full speed in just a few strides.
- Agility: His ability to change direction at pace makes him a nightmare for attackers and defenders alike.
- Stamina: He can sustain his speed throughout a full match, allowing him to contribute both offensively and defensively.
Davies’ blistering runs down the left flank for Bayern Munich make him one of the most feared full-backs in Europe. His pace allows him to recover quickly and make crucial tackles, as well as break forward on the attack.
3. Adama Traoré (Fulham)
Adama Traoré’s move to Fulham in 2024 has done nothing to slow him down. If anything, the Premier League winger has further refined his game while maintaining his reputation as one of the fastest footballers on the planet.
Top Speed: 37.5 km/h (23.30 mph)
Why He’s So Fast:
- Physical Power: Traoré is known not just for his speed but also for his muscular build, which helps him power through defenders.
- Balance: Despite his bulky frame, Traoré can maintain high speeds without losing control of the ball.
- Ball Control: His ability to dribble at full speed makes him a unique threat.
Traoré’s pace and power combination makes him one of the most terrifying players to face in one-on-one situations. His sprints down the right wing are often unmatchable, allowing him to create goal-scoring opportunities or fire in dangerous crosses.
4. Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain)
Another PSG star making the list, Achraf Hakimi is widely considered one of the fastest full-backs in the world. In 2024, his pace continues to define his game, allowing him to excel both in defense and attack.
Top Speed: 36.5 km/h (22.68 mph)
Why He’s So Fast:
- Endurance: Hakimi can sprint for long distances without tiring, making him ideal for PSG’s high-tempo style of play.
- Precision: He times his runs perfectly, allowing him to break through defensive lines with ease.
- Versatility: Hakimi’s speed allows him to play both as a full-back and a winger, providing flexibility for his team.
Whether it’s making a last-ditch recovery run or sprinting forward to provide an option on the right wing, Hakimi’s speed is a key part of PSG’s success.
5. Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid)
Vinícius Júnior has emerged as one of the most dangerous attackers in La Liga, and a big part of his game is his lightning pace. The Brazilian winger has continued to terrorize defenses in 2024, using his speed to great effect.
Top Speed: 36.1 km/h (22.43 mph)
Why He’s So Fast:
- Agility: Vinícius can change directions at top speed, allowing him to weave through defenders.
- Dribbling Ability: His close control at pace makes him one of the most elusive players in the world.
- Explosiveness: Vinícius can burst into life at any moment, taking advantage of even the smallest gaps in defense.
Vinícius’ pace has been a vital component of Real Madrid’s attacking play, especially in counter-attacking situations. His ability to sprint past defenders and create goal-scoring chances has made him a key player for Los Blancos.
6. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Mohamed Salah remains one of the fastest and most prolific attackers in the Premier League. Known for his ability to leave defenders trailing in his wake, the Egyptian star continues to excel in 2024.
Top Speed: 36 km/h (22.37 mph)
Why He’s So Fast:
- Sharp Turns: Salah can accelerate quickly while maintaining tight control of the ball.
- Tactical Intelligence: He knows how to position himself to maximize his speed in counter-attacks.
- Finishing Ability: His pace allows him to get into goal-scoring positions quickly, often leaving defenders helpless.
Salah’s speed, combined with his technical skills, has cemented his status as one of Liverpool’s all-time greats. His ability to turn defense into attack with just one sprint makes him a critical player for Jurgen Klopp’s system.
7. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Erling Haaland is more known for his goal-scoring abilities, but his speed should not be underestimated. In 2024, the Norwegian striker continues to terrorize defenses with his mix of physicality and pace.
Top Speed: 35.9 km/h (22.31 mph)
Why He’s So Fast:
- Powerful Strides: Haaland’s long legs allow him to cover ground quickly and maintain a high speed for long distances.
- Positioning: His ability to time his runs behind defenders ensures that his speed is always maximized.
- Endurance: He can sustain his pace over the course of a match, making him a constant threat to tired defenses.
Haaland’s speed is often overshadowed by his goal-scoring, but it plays a massive role in his ability to get into the right positions and finish chances. Manchester City’s attack is all the more dangerous with his pace leading the line.
8. Kyle Walker (Manchester City)
At 34 years old, Kyle Walker is still one of the fastest players in the world. The Manchester City right-back continues to display remarkable speed in 2024, making him a key part of Pep Guardiola’s defensive and offensive systems.
Top Speed: 35.7 km/h (22.19 mph)
Why He’s So Fast:
- Experience: Walker’s years of playing at the highest level have sharpened his ability to use his speed tactically.
- Defensive Prowess: His speed allows him to recover quickly, covering for teammates or making last-ditch tackles.
- Crossing Ability: His speed down the right flank makes him a reliable source of crosses for Manchester City’s attackers.
Walker’s combination of speed and experience has made him one of the best right-backs of his generation. In 2024, his pace continues to be a vital asset for Manchester City as they push for more silverware.
9. Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)
Marcus Rashford has been one of the fastest players in the Premier League for years, and 2024 is no exception. The Manchester United forward is known for his ability to break at speed and create dangerous chances.
Top Speed: 35.5 km/h (22.06 mph)
Why He’s So Fast:
- Acceleration: Rashford’s quick bursts allow him to leave defenders behind in a matter of seconds.
- Ball Control: His ability to maintain control of the ball at high speeds makes him a constant threat.
- Versatility: Rashford can use his pace both on the wings and through the middle, making him a versatile attacking option.
Rashford’s speed is a major factor in Manchester United’s counter-attacking play. His ability to exploit space and run past defenders makes him one of the Red Devils’ most dangerous weapons.
10. Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain)
Ousmane Dembélé has always been known for his lightning pace, and in 2024, he remains one of the fastest footballers in the world. The Barcelona winger’s speed is a key part of his game, allowing him to beat defenders and create chances.
Top Speed: 35.3 km/h (21.93 mph)
