When you think of Premier League speedsters, a few of the usual suspects come to mind. The likes of Kyle Walker, Mohamed Salah, Dan James etc are known for being blazingly quick. You’ll often catch these names topping the list for top speed in the league.
However, the fastest man in the league this season (so far) is sure to surprise you.
As per OptaJoe, the highest recorded top speed in the league so far this season belongs to Chelsea‘s Antonio Rudiger.
36.7 – Antonio Rüdiger has the highest recorded top speed in the Premier League this season, with 36.7 km/h against Brighton:
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 22, 2022
36.7 – Antonio Rüdiger
36.6 – Mohamed Salah
36.6 – Adama Traoré
36.2 – Ibrahima Konaté
36.1 – Ollie Watkins
36.1 – Patson Daka
Lightning. #AskOptaJoe https://t.co/sEvZoVdlj8
This should come as little surprise to those familiar with the German’s pace, but still, the number he recorded is certainly worthy of being marvelled at.
Clocking in at 36.7 km/h, captured during the game against Brighton, the German ends up ahead of Mohamed Salah (2nd) by the smallest of margins (0.1).
Aside from defensive abilities, his offensive qualities often remain underrated. The former Roma man loves a venture forward and is known for making rapid runs towards opposition territory, beating players with his pace in the process.
The frequency of such runs is on the higher side as well, and Chelsea fans are accustomed to seeing a Rudiger run in basically every game.
His pace adds another highly desired attribute to his playstyle, alongside his strong mentality, and stern defensive attitude.
With all these skills at his disposal, the importance of renewing his contract cannot be understated, and it is probably a priority for Chelsea once their new owners assume control.
