Last Updated: Aug 11, 2023
Soccer is a sport that involves pace regardless of your position. This is because each player has to chase the ball, get it and ensure possession. But, what is the best soccer position for fast players?
This is what you are going to find out in this article.
Let’s get started.
What is the Best Soccer Position for Fast Players?
The best soccer position for fast players is the winger position. This position demands a high level of speed to outmanoeuvre defenders and either make a cross or cut in to score goals.
If you have pace, the winger position can be for you.
But, why is it important to be fast on the wings?
==>> You can also read my article about the best soccer positions for slow players here.
Why Is It Important To Have Pace As A Winger?
As a winger, your job is to run the entire width of the pitch and cross the ball for the other forwards.
With that in mind, you need to work on both your pace and stamina.
Of course, the winger is supported the majority of the time by the full-back, but the winger still has to put too much effort into the side.
Also, all professional players who have played in the winger position had pace and were the fastest players in their team.
For example, K.Mbappe in PSG, or Kingsley Coman, Sane and Serge Gnabry in Bayern Munich. What those players have in common is they are the fastest players in their teams and they all play in the winger position.
The Fastest Player Should Be The Most Feared Player In The Team
When a player is fast, the opposing defenders tend to be scared and don’t leave too much space.
A fast player can quickly run into space and behind the defence to score goals.
For example, once again, Mbappe. Every time he faces defenders, they have no choice but to defend very low on the pitch. If they leave too much space, Mbappe will exploit those spaces and punish them.
So, the fastest player is the most feared player on the pitch.
It is more difficult to defend against a fast forward than a skilful one.
Speaking about skills, keep in mind that being the fastest player doesn’t necessarily mean you need to play in the winger position.
You can be the fastest player but with poor dribbling and finishing ability.
In this case, maybe the winger position is not suitable for you.
Because, as a winger, you have to run the most, but also be able to dribble to eliminate opposing defenders. You should also be able to cross a ball and finish.
Say you are only good at running, well, in this case, you should find a different position based on what you can do on the pitch.
However, because of the pace you have, it should be a good idea to play as a winger and just improve the other missing skills like dribbling, finishing, and crossing. If you have those latest skills, you will be a complete winger.
Anyway, you can also take our quiz about the soccer position you should play.
The Need for Speed: A Deeper Look at the Winger Position
The winger position in soccer demands exceptional speed, as players are required to traverse the full width of the field, outpacing defenders to deliver crucial crosses and contribute to goal-scoring opportunities.
It’s important to highlight that while pace is crucial, wingers also need to possess high stamina levels due to the extensive running involved.
You can also read: What do scouts look for in wingers?
Collaboration with Full-Backs: A Symbiotic Relationship
Wingers collaborate closely with full-backs, who provide support and defensive cover.
However, wingers shoulder a significant portion of offensive responsibilities and are expected to maintain a constant attacking threat.
This highlights the essential role that speed plays in enabling wingers to exploit spaces and outpace defenders, thereby creating scoring chances.
Now let’s discuss the tactical implications of having the fastest player in different positions on the soccer field.
Tactical Considerations: Utilizing Speed in Various Positions
While the winger position is often associated with speed due to its demands for rapid sprints along the touchline, there are intriguing tactical possibilities when considering the fastest player in other positions as well.
1. Full-Backs with Blistering Pace
The modern game has witnessed a transformation in the role of full-backs, turning them into more offensive threats.
A full-back with exceptional speed can act as a surprise weapon, making overlapping runs to catch opponents off-guard.
Their ability to quickly recover and track back defensively can also be invaluable in nullifying fast counter-attacks, providing a dual-purpose advantage.
2. Central Midfield Dynamo
Rarely discussed, yet equally relevant, is the role of a central midfielder with remarkable speed.
Such a player can cover ground quickly to contribute both defensively and offensively.
Their rapid transitions from defense to attack and vice versa can disrupt the opponent’s rhythm, enabling them to regain possession efficiently and launch swift counter-attacks.
3. Striking Speedsters
While forwards are generally associated with goal-scoring, having a fast striker can influence the team’s playing style.
A quick striker can stretch the opponent’s defense, creating space for teammates to exploit.
Their speed can be a constant threat on through balls and long passes, making it challenging for defenders to maintain a high line and potentially leading to defensive errors.
4. Defensive Dynamism
Speed is not limited to attacking roles; it can be equally impactful in defensive positions.
A rapid centre-back can recover swiftly when dealing with fast opponents, minimizing the risk of being caught out of position.
Additionally, a quick defensive midfielder can break up opposition plays efficiently, snuffing out counter-attacks before they gain momentum.
5. The Tactical Advantage: Versatility and Flexibility
Teams that possess players with extraordinary speed in various positions gain a tactical advantage.
They can adjust their playing style based on the opposition and game situation.
By having speed distributed strategically across the field, teams can choose to play on the counter, exploit spaces, or press high, depending on the strengths of their speedsters.
Play Where You Feel Most Comfortable In
Yes, the fastest player should play on the wing.
But, remember that you are the one who knows where you are more comfortable when you are on the pitch. You know your skills well and more than anyone else.
So, use those skills to define your position. Ask yourself, what am I good at? Can I dribble? Do I like to hold the ball?
Just look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Most people are not able to define their skills. If that’s your case, then ask your friends in your neighbourhood or your teammates in your team.
Your friends are perfectly capable of telling you the truth as they see you playing most of the time.
If you have a team, you can also ask your coach. The coach is even the best person to define a position for you based on your skills and what you have shown in training.
So, if you are the fastest player in your neighbourhood or your team, the ideal position that your team will most benefit from is on the wing. But, on the other hand, do not just rely on that to define your position.
Final Word
At the end of this article, it should be remembered that the best soccer position for fast players is the winger position.
The fastest professional soccer players out there play in the winger position in their team and there is a reason for it.
while the winger position is a natural fit for the fastest players, the potential impact of speed extends beyond the touchlines.
By strategically deploying speed in various positions, teams can create a multi-faceted approach that challenges opponents on multiple fronts.
Analyzing how speed can enhance defensive stability, midfield control, and striking prowess opens up new dimensions in soccer tactics, enriching the game’s strategic depth.
As coaches and players continue to explore innovative ways to leverage their fastest talents, soccer’s evolving tactical landscape promises to yield exciting and dynamic matches, driven by the strategic use of speed across the entire field.
Are you the fastest player in your team right now? What position do you play? Do you think you can do well as a winger?
Let me know in the comment section below and I will get back to you.
I hope you have gained value from this article.
You can also read: What position do tall soccer players play?
