Why Los Blancos Possess 'Total Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old creates club a historic moment in a key Champions League match against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

In only his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a 3-0 round of 16 first-leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club debut in the qualifying 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 the midweek return to confirm a last eight place.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch was the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise From La Fabrica

The midfielder is the most recent to emerge from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most promising young players.

He joined Madrid from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe academies, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

He progressed to the B team and it was during a friendly match in which they played against the academy's first team, then coached by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced the previous coach in January.

Reports would later label the moment as "love at first sight," noting Pitarch stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, character and drive he brought to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Personality'

In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the first team and gave him minutes during pre-season.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his career as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against Benfica that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the very first time I started playing the game, each day you go to train and every day you have a game," stated Pitarch after his debut.

"I have just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the world and in the top tournament."

Given a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he was for four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opportunity.

Pitarch has taken it with performances that have belied his age and experience.

"He is a very quick player, and you can see his capabilities," said the coach. "He's extremely energetic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and mobility."

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

"His standout trait is his character," added he. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I realize people are surprised to see him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete trust in him to do his normal game.

"Thiago will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It's a pleasure to have a player like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, moving through local academies before joining Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.

He possesses dual Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, giving him the choice to represent both nations at senior international level.

According to international regulations, footballers may appear for different countries at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only binding once they play in a competitive senior international match.

He has played for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the U19 and U20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to either senior national team, who are watching his rise with keen attention.

In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice so far. Things are great with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

His situation echoes that of other dual nationality players such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine chose Spain, Brahim opted to play for the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for over an hour in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one aggregate success and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to help the team pursue trophies to come.

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

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I have to deserve my playing time on the pitch," he said following the success at Etihad Stadium.