Why Real Madrid Have 'Utter Faith' in Teenager Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old creates Real Madrid history in a crucial Champions League match against Manchester City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.

During his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions secured a three-nil round of 16 first leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English champions in the midweek second leg to confirm a last eight berth.

At 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder was the team's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing Brazil forward Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

This talent is the most recent to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

He signed for Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

Pitarch worked his way up to the reserve side and it was in a pre-season game in which they faced the senior squad, then coached by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.

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

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

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

Yet, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that set up the clash with Manchester City.

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

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

Handed a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

The teenager has taken it with displays that have defied his youth and experience.

"He is a extremely fast player, and you can see what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He is incredibly energetic, with great endurance, work-rate and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

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

"I understand people are astonished to see him make his debut 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 coach a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He possesses dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, offering him the option to represent both nations at the highest level.

Under Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent different countries at junior level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they play in a competitive full international.

He has played for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the under-19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are watching his progress with keen attention.

In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a decision soon."

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

Eyes on the Prize

At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for over an hour in the 2-1 victory at City, which completed a 5-1 overall triumph and a last-eight 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 club pursue future success.

Following his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to play a key role in that.

"The manager treats me the same. We handle it very naturally. I try not to overanalyze it too much - I have to deserve my playing time on the pitch," he commented after the win at Manchester.