The last time the 32-year-old started a game on the bench for Real was January 7 2015, during a Spanish Cup game against city rivals Atletico
The Portuuguese has been the first name on the teamsheet at the Bernabeu since his arrival from Manchester United in 2009 and when he has been rested, he has normally been sat in the stands rather than on the bench.
Almost two and a half years later, Ronaldo returns to the bench for the UEFA Super Cup. The Portuguese returns to the squad having barely trained with Real due to his extended holidays as a result of his involvement in the Confederations Cup.
His 'benching' that Ronaldo has only started on the bench 14 times in 397 appearances for 'Los Blancos'.
It also marks the first time Ronaldo has appeared on the bench under Zinedine Zidane, with the Frenchman normally preferring to rest the Portuguese completely.
Interestingly, Jose Mourinho was the man who banished Ronaldo to the bench most, with the Portuguese coach naming his fellow countryman on the bench on five occasions.