World Cup 2026: no one has played more than Cristiano Ronaldo

Ronaldo, the most used player of the World Cup!

World Cup 2026 28 June 2026 at 11:00

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World Cup 2026: no one has played more than Cristiano Ronaldo

Starting in all three group stage matches, Cristiano Ronaldo has played every single minute of the 2026 World Cup for Portugal. This management decision is raising questions, especially as the Portuguese captain appeared to struggle physically in the last outing against Colombia.

Indispensable in the eyes of Roberto Martínez, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to rack up minutes with Portugal in this World Cup. However, his heavy usage has sparked widespread debate after the goalless draw against Colombia (0-0), where the five-time Ballon d'Or winner seemed to face genuine physical challenges towards the end of the match.

Indeed, the Portuguese captain has played every minute of the group stage—over 270 minutes of action—a remarkably high total in such a demanding tournament. Unlike other tournament stars such as Lionel Messi or Erling Haaland, the 41-year-old has not been afforded any special management of his playing time.

Nevertheless, Roberto Martínez fully stands by his decision. The Spanish coach still considers his captain a crucial asset, capable of changing the course of a match with a single action, even as his physical condition appears to be gradually waning.