David De Gea has been one of the busiest footballers in Europe over the past five years (Image: GETTY)
David De Gea has been a key component of Manchester United’s success in recent seasons, with the Spaniard pulling of some spectacular saves to earn his side valuable points and keep their cup hopes alive.
And now it becomes clear just how much the Red Devils rely on their No 1 goalkeeper, thanks to data from CIES Football Observatory.
Despite having an experienced international as back-up in the form of Sergio Romero, De Gea has featured in 184 matches over the past five years.
Based on recordings from January 1, 2014 to January 28, 2019, the stopper has racked up a mammoth 16,544 minutes of on-pitch action.
That outrageous statistic puts him fourth across the big five European leagues, well clear of any Premier League rival and only trailing a trio of fellow goalkeepers.
Andrea Consigli and Anthony Lopes have only worked a handful of minutes more than United’s keeper, although all three are actually some way behind the busiest player in Europe.
Meanwhile, Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta leads the way for outfield players, with the Spaniard indispensable under Jose Mourinho, Guus Hiddink, Antonio Conte and Maurizio Sarri.
Finally, England goalkeeper Joe Hart makes the top 30 despite having played for (and struggled at) four different clubs during the period study – but which other players are the first names on the teamsheet?
De Gea has played every minute of Manchester United's Premier League season so far (Image: GETTY)
30. Jeremy Sorbon (Guingamp) – 14,559 minutes (166 matches)
26. Benjamin Lecomte (Lorient/Montpellier) – 14,668 minutes (164 matches)
Benjamin Lecomte (Lorient/Montpellier) – 14,668 minutes (164 matches) (Image: GETTY)
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25. Marco Parolo (Parma/Lazio) – 14,691 minutes (171 matches)