The Reason Real Madrid Possess 'Complete Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

When an teenage makes club a historic moment in a key Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time Champions League winners secured a 3-0 round of 16 first leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos defeat the English champions in the midweek return to secure a quarter-final berth.

At 18 years old, Pitarch was the club's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vini Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent From The Academy

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

He signed for Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.

He progressed to the B team and it was in a friendly match 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 current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.

Reports would later label the moment as "love at first sight," noting Pitarch stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and determination he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

In the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the senior squad and gave him minutes in the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the turning point in his career as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in each leg against Benfica that set up the meeting with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the first day I began playing football, every day you go to train and each day you play a match," stated Pitarch following his debut.

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

Given a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for four years after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the next four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opportunity.

Pitarch has seized it with displays that have belied his age and experience.

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can see his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is extremely energetic, with great stamina, effort and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

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

"I realize people are astonished to see him start in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total trust in him to do what he usually does.

"Thiago will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It is delightful to have a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and grew up deeply involved in Spanish football, moving through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

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

Under international regulations, players may represent different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only final once they play in a official full international.

Pitarch has played for Spain at youth level, representing both the under-19 and U20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to any full national side, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.

Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are positive with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Yamal chose La Roja, Diaz decided to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

For now, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.

He played 74 minutes in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in younger players to help the club pursue future success.

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

"Arbeloa handles me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I must earn my minutes on the field," he commented following the win at Manchester.