It says something about Swansea City's increased depth out wide that Ronald's first start of the season came at right-back.

Having fallen down the pecking order for a start on the wing this season, Ronald came close to leaving Swansea for Millwall prior to last month's transfer deadline.

Seven weeks later, Vitor Matos must be glad the Brazilian is still around.

Though he has been used sparingly so far this season, Ronald has had a positive impact.

That continued when the 25-year-old started against West Ham United last weekend, as he let nobody down despite being played out of position in the absence of regular right-backs Josh Key and Filip Lissah.

"I think Ronnie took the role as well as we all thought he could. I'm really proud of him," said Swansea head coach Matos.

Ronald played a full 90 minutes against West Ham, the first time he has managed that feat this season.

Before that, he had racked up only 112 minutes combined across five substitute appearances in 2026-27.

With the likes of Moussa Yeo, Joseph Opoku and Eom Jisung competing with him for game-time out wide, Ronald may find himself back on the bench when Swansea go to Queens Park Rangers next Saturday, with Lissah favourite to start at right-back as he returns from suspension.

But Ronald has made his mark from the bench this season, with a goal in the win at Derby County in August, a notable assist against Burnley and the late winner at Millwall last week.

Not only that, but Ronald proved against West Ham that he can put in a shift in defence when required, with his contribution prompting Swansea fans to sing the name of a player who has faced his share of criticism from the stands.

"I think Ronnie did a quite consistent game, a quite good game, even in moments offensive-wise, coming from the back with the energy to push the team forward," Matos added.

"He helped us a lot, it was not an easy game against [Manor] Solomon, who is probably one of the best dribblers of the league, and with the overload over that side, with Morato arriving here and him moving inside.

"I think he handled that really well and that gives us the comfort that if we decide to use him, for sure he will perform again."