Elanga’s reported mark leaves him just behind the fastest player recorded at the tournament. His ranking underlines the threat he offers in transition, where acceleration and open-field running can turn defensive recoveries into immediate chances.
Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven is listed third at 36.77km/h, making him the fastest defender in the rankings. Feyenoord’s Jordan Bos reportedly matched that speed to finish fourth.
Erling Haaland follows at 36.52km/h, combining elite physical power with a strong tournament, while Manchester City team-mate Abdukodir Khusanov reached 36.46km/h. France’s Bradley Barcola, England’s Djed Spence and Portugal’s Nelson Semedo also feature prominently.
The most striking detail is Spain’s absence from the top 100. The report places Alex Baena, their highest-ranked player, in 113th.
That contrast highlights an important distinction between speed and successful tournament football. Spain’s possession-focused approach is built on circulation, positioning and control rather than repeated long sprints. Their reported lack of a top-speed specialist did not prevent them from winning the competition.
Peak pace can decide individual moments, but it does not replace structure. Spain’s campaign offers a reminder that controlling the game can be as valuable as outrunning an opponent.
The list includes defenders, full-backs and forwards from several footballing cultures. Theo Hernandez, Anthony Gordon, Mohamed Toure, Achraf Hakimi and Pedro Neto all appear among the leading runners, while Nelson Semedo, reportedly aged 32, is the oldest player in the top 20.
The next storyline will be whether Elanga’s reported World Cup speed translates into sustained club form-and whether Spain’s title strengthens the case for control over raw pace.