AS: The new City defender who is quicker than Vini Jr

Real Madrid’s Brazilian winger is used to taking on Manchester City full-backs. But not this one.

Real Madrid will visit the Etihad to take on Manchester City in the Champions League with a makeshift defensive line. Of the four players forming Ancelotti’s rearguard, only the left-back—either Fran García or Mendy—and Dani Carvajal will be in their natural positions.

The rest, including Valverde and Tchouaméni, will be playing out of position. And standing opposite them will be Erling Braut Haaland.

Who is the fastest player in the Champions League?

Manchester City’s Norwegian striker is the fastest player in this season’s Champions League, having reached a top speed of 36.6 km/h. If given space to run, he will be incredibly difficult to stop. Few defenders can match his acceleration.

City full-back makes up quickest player podium

Close behind Haaland in the speed rankings is PSG’s Achraf Hakimi, who clocked 36.5 km/h in the group stage. Interestingly, Matheus Nunes—potentially tasked with marking Vinícius Júnior in this high-stakes showdown between City and Madrid—is the third-fastest player, reaching 36.3 km/h.

Despite being a midfielder, Nunes often operates on the right flank, where he poses a significant threat. PSG’s Barcola exploited this in his battle against City, and Madrid’s attackers—Vinícius, Rodrygo, or possibly Mbappé—will face similar challenges when attacking his wing.

Vinícius’ top recorded speed is 35.5 km/h, while Mbappé has hit 35.7 km/h, making him Madrid’s fastest player. Though both rank among the Champions League’s top 10 fastest players, they are still a step behind the competition’s elite sprinters.