The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Complete Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old creates club a historic moment in a pivotal Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the 15-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil round of 16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted the Madrid side defeat the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to secure a last eight place.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch was the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

He signed for Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a strong impression.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was in a pre-season game in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

Reports would later label the moment as "love at first sight," adding he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, personality and determination he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to practice with the first team and awarded him playing time in the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the turning point in his career as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against the Portuguese side that set up the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the very first time I started playing the game, every day you head to training and every day you play a match," stated the player following his first appearance.

"I have just achieved my dream with the best team in the planet and in the best competition."

Given a first start in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.

The teenager has seized it with performances that have defied his youth and inexperience.

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can see what he's capable of," said the coach. "He is extremely dynamic, with excellent endurance, work-rate and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also stood out to his coach.

"His standout trait is his personality," added he. "He constantly demands the ball, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I realize fans might be astonished to see him start in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to do his normal game.

"He will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It's a pleasure to coach a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, progressing through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He holds both Moroccan and Spanish nationality, offering him the option to represent either country at the highest level.

According to Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent different countries at junior level without being locked in, with the final decision only final once they play in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has played for Spain at youth level, representing both the U19 and under-20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the last eight.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to either full national side, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.

Speaking recently, the player said: "I haven't made my final decision yet. My situation is positive with Spain, but I will reach a decision in the near future."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas teenage Lamine opted for La Roja, Brahim decided to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

For now, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight tie with Bayern Munich.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to aid the team chase future success.

After his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"The manager treats me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I try not to overanalyze it excessively - I must deserve my minutes on the field," he said after the success at Manchester.