How fast was Erling Haaland? A deeper look at one of the finest strikers in modern football

Erling Haaland is widely regarded as one of the most complete strikers in modern football. He combines elite physicality with sharp predatory instincts, intelligent positioning, and, above all, remarkable pace that sets him apart from his peers.

For defenders, facing Haaland is a daunting task. His speed turns even the smallest gap into a clear scoring chance, and once he finds space, he is notoriously difficult to contain.

So, how fast is Erling Haaland? In this article, Soccer24 takes a closer look at the numbers behind his pace and explains why it has become such a decisive weapon in his game.

How fast is Erling Haaland?

Erling Haaland recorded his fastest sprint during the 2020-21 campaign, when he was playing for Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga. On that occasion, he reached a top speed of 36.04 km/h, surpassing the previous benchmark set by Alphonso Davies and setting a new league record at the time.

Since moving to Manchester City, his pace has remained a key asset. During the 2024-25 season, he was clocked at 35.74 km/h, a figure that underlines his consistency at the highest level.

What makes those numbers particularly striking, however, is the context. For a player of his size and physical build, Haaland’s speed is exceptional, which is why he continues to pose such a unique challenge for defenders.

Top 5 speeds of Premier League players 2025/26

5. Bryan Mbeumo -  Manchester United - 36.34km/h

Bryan Mbeumo underlined his pace in Premier League action when he reached a top speed of 36.34 km/h during Manchester United’s Matchweek 2 meeting with Fulham at Craven Cottage. The moment came in a rapid counter-attack, as he won possession deep inside his own half before accelerating into open space. With Fulham holding a high defensive line, Mbeumo drove forward for nearly 50 yards, turning defence into attack in a matter of seconds.

The forward arrived from Brentford following an impressive 2024–25 campaign in which he scored 20 goals, and he has continued to deliver in new colours. So far, he has registered nine goals and three assists across 26 league appearances, offering both direct threat and consistent output in the final third.

4. Anthony Elanga - Newcastle United - 36.35km/h

Anthony Elanga showcased his outstanding pace when he was clocked at 36.35 km/h during Newcastle United’s clash with Chelsea. The sprint came in a defensive transition, as Elanga tracked back from the edge of the opposition box into his own half to halt a counter led by Pedro Neto. It was a passage of play that highlighted not only his speed but also his work rate and tactical discipline.

His first season at St James' Park has been defined by elite physical output, although his finishing remains a work in progress. Elanga has noticeably added lean muscle since his arrival, which has helped him sustain high speeds while competing in physical duels.

While he is yet to open his account in the Premier League, he has scored twice in the UEFA Champions League, including an important group-stage goal that contributed to Newcastle’s progression.

3. Destiny Udogie - Tottenham Hotspur - 36.42 km/h

Destiny Udogie has every reason to take pride in his place among the league’s quickest players. The Tottenham Hotspur full-back was clocked at 36.42 km/h during a Premier League meeting with Brighton & Hove Albion, a figure that briefly stood as the fastest recorded speed by any defender that season.

The moment came in a defensive recovery, as Spurs were caught following a corner. With Brighton launching a long-ball transition, Udogie sprinted close to 60 metres to get back and cut out a dangerous pass aimed at Kaoru Mitoma. His pace not only neutralised the threat but also underlined his importance within the system.

Alongside Micky van de Ven, Udogie provides the foundation for Tottenham’s aggressive high line. His rapid acceleration, particularly over the first few seconds, offers a crucial safety net when dealing with counter-attacking opponents.

2. Jackson Tchatchoua - Wolverhampton - 36.97 km/h

Jackson Tchatchoua delivered a standout display against Crystal Palace on February 22, 2026, further underlining his reputation as one of the most consistent speed threats in the league. The Wolverhampton Wanderers wide player was clocked at 36.97 km/h during Matchweek 27 at Selhurst Park, the highest figure recorded in that round.

The burst came in a high-tempo transition following a midfield turnover. Spotting the opportunity, Tchatchoua surged forward on a 40-metre overlapping run, quickly offering an outlet on the flank. His acceleration proved decisive, as he moved beyond the Palace back line in under four seconds and drove into a dangerous attacking position.

Although the move did not end in a goal, his delivery into the box created a clear opening and highlighted his growing influence in advanced areas, where his pace continues to trouble defenders.

1. Jackson Tchatchoua - Wolverhampton - 37.30 km/h

Jackson Tchatchoua continued to redefine expectations by surpassing his own mark within the same campaign, underlining just how decisive his pace has become. The Wolverhampton Wanderers wide player set the season’s benchmark when he reached 37.30 km/h during the home fixture against Everton in August 2025.

The moment arrived late in the second half, following an Everton corner. Once the ball was cleared, Tchatchoua reacted instantly and surged forward to join a counter led by Matheus Cunha. Covering almost the full length of the pitch, he carried the run for close to 90 metres, turning defence into attack in a matter of seconds.

Tracking data later showed he hit top speed around the 60-metre mark, maintaining an exceptional stride frequency throughout. The sequence not only highlighted his acceleration but also placed him among the quickest players in the game this season.

Top 5 speeds of Premier League players 2025/26

5. Bryan Mbeumo -  Manchester United - 36.34km/h

4. Anthony Elanga - Newcastle United - 36.35km/h

3. Destiny Udogie - Tottenham Hotspur - 36.42 km/h

2. Jackson Tchatchoua - Wolverhampton - 36.97 km/h

1. Jackson Tchatchoua - Wolverhampton - 37.30 km/h

Soccer24h.net has answered the question: How fast was Erling Haaland? Along with the top 5 fastest speeds recorded by Premier League players in the 2025/26 season so far.

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