Why Los Blancos Have 'Complete Faith' in Teenager Thiago Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old makes Real Madrid history in a pivotal Champions League match against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a three-nil last-16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to secure a quarter-final place.

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

A Meteoric Rise Through La Fabrica

This talent is the latest to come through from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting protegees.

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

Pitarch progressed to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "an instant connection," noting he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, character and determination he brought to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Character'

In the summer of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the first team and gave him minutes during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the first day I began playing the game, every day you head to training and each day you play a match," said Pitarch following his first appearance.

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

Handed a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he spent several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.

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

"He's a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He is incredibly dynamic, with great endurance, effort and movement."

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

"His standout trait is his personality," added he. "He always wants the ball, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize people are astonished to watch him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total confidence in him to do what he usually does.

"Thiago will continue to get chances with the first team. It's a pleasure to coach a talent like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

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

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for different countries at junior level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they play in a competitive senior international match.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to either senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision so far. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision soon."

This scenario echoes that of other dual nationality talents such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barca star Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine chose Spain, Diaz decided to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

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

He played over an hour in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a 5-1 overall triumph and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the club chase future success.

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

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We handle it very naturally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I have to deserve my minutes on the pitch," he said following the win at Manchester.