In the opening round of the 2025/26 Premier League season, Liverpool’s new signing Jérémie Frimpong has already stolen the spotlight by clocking the fastest top speed of any player, a blistering 36.1km/h. The Dutch right-back, acquired from Bayer Leverkusen for £29.5 million in the summer of 2025, has wasted no time showcasing why he is considered one of Europe’s most dynamic defenders. His electrifying pace not only underlines his value to Liverpool but also sets a new benchmark for the Premier League’s speedsters, sparking excitement among fans and analysts alike.

A Lightning Start to the Season

The Premier League has long been a stage for breathtaking athleticism, with players like Kyle Walker, Marcus Rashford, and Bukayo Saka frequently topping the speed charts in recent years. However, Frimpong’s remarkable 36.1km/h sprint in Liverpool’s opening match has rewritten the narrative. Recorded during a lung-busting run down the right flank, this speed surpassed even the most agile players in the division, cementing Frimpong’s reputation as a game-changer.

The data, captured by the Premier League’s advanced tracking technology, highlights Frimpong’s ability to combine raw pace with tactical intelligence. His sprint came during a crucial moment in the match, as he surged past his marker to deliver a pinpoint cross, creating a scoring opportunity for Liverpool’s attack. This blend of speed and end product has already made him a fan favorite at Anfield and a key component of manager Arne Slot’s high-octane system.

From Leverkusen to Liverpool: Frimpong’s Journey

Jérémie Frimpong’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. Born in Amsterdam to Ghanaian parents, the 24-year-old honed his skills at Manchester City’s academy before moving to Celtic and then Bayer Leverkusen, where he established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s standout full-backs. His £29.5 million transfer to Liverpool in June 2025 was seen as a coup, given his proven track record in both attack and defense.

At Leverkusen, Frimpong was a key part of Xabi Alonso’s title-winning side in 2023/24, contributing goals and assists from the right-back position while showcasing his trademark pace. His ability to transition seamlessly from defense to attack made him a perfect fit for Liverpool’s system, which demands versatility and dynamism from its full-backs. Competing with Trent Alexander-Arnold for a starting spot, Frimpong has already demonstrated that he can challenge the established order at Anfield.

The Impact of Speed in Modern Football

Frimpong’s record-breaking speed is more than just a statistic—it’s a weapon that can tilt matches in Liverpool’s favor. In the modern game, where high pressing and rapid transitions are critical, players with exceptional pace can disrupt opposition defenses and create numerical advantages. Frimpong’s ability to cover ground quickly allows him to recover defensively, support attacks, and exploit spaces behind high defensive lines, making him a nightmare for opposing wingers and full-backs.

His 36.1km/h sprint is particularly notable when compared to historical benchmarks. For context, Usain Bolt’s average speed during his 100-meter world record (9.58 seconds) was approximately 37.6km/h, meaning Frimpong’s top speed is remarkably close to that of the fastest man on earth—while carrying a football and navigating a crowded pitch. This level of athleticism places him in elite company and underscores why Liverpool were willing to invest heavily in his potential.

What This Means for Liverpool’s Season

Frimpong’s explosive start to the 2025/26 season is a promising sign for Liverpool, who have undergone a significant squad overhaul this summer. With marquee signings like Florian Wirtz (£116.5 million) and Hugo Ekitike (£79 million), alongside the potential arrivals of Alexander Isak (£125 million) and Marc Guehi (£35 million), the Reds are building a squad designed to dominate both domestically and in Europe. Frimpong’s pace adds a new dimension to their right flank, complementing the creativity of Wirtz and the finishing prowess of Liverpool’s forwards.

Under Arne Slot, Liverpool have adopted a high-intensity, possession-based style that relies on quick transitions and overlapping runs from full-backs. Frimpong’s speed and attacking instincts make him an ideal fit for this system, allowing him to stretch defenses and create space for players like Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai. His defensive contributions, while still developing, have also shown promise, with his recovery pace enabling him to neutralize counter-attacks.

The Road Ahead

As the Premier League season unfolds, Frimpong’s speed will likely continue to be a talking point. His ability to maintain such intensity over a grueling 38-game campaign, plus cup competitions and potential Champions League fixtures, will be crucial. While his offensive output is undeniable, refining his defensive positioning and decision-making will determine whether he can become a complete full-back in the mold of Alexander-Arnold or Andy Robertson.

Fans and pundits are already buzzing about Frimpong’s potential to break more records this season. Could he surpass his own 36.1km/h mark? Will he become the Premier League’s assist king from the right-back position? These questions add an element of intrigue to Liverpool’s campaign, as Frimpong looks set to play a pivotal role in their pursuit of silverware.

Conclusion

Jérémie Frimpong’s record-breaking 36.1km/h sprint in the opening round of the 2025/26 Premier League season has sent a clear message: Liverpool have a new speed demon in their ranks. His electrifying pace, combined with his attacking flair and defensive tenacity, makes him a vital asset for the Reds as they aim to reclaim their place at the top of English and European football. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Frimpong to see how his blistering speed translates into consistent match-winning performances. One thing is certain: Anfield has a new star who’s ready to run rings around the opposition.