Why Real Madrid Possess 'Complete Trust' in Youngster Pitarch

When an teenage creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a crucial European tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time European champions claimed a 3-0 round of 16 first-leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to confirm a last eight place.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch was the team's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's record by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

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

He joined Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the Juvenil C team, where he quickly made a positive impact.

He progressed to the B team and it was during a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed 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 "an instant connection," noting he stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and determination he added to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Personality'

In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and awarded him playing time in the warm-up matches.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the defining moment in his career as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the very first time I started playing the game, each day you head to training and every day you play a match," stated the player following his first appearance.

"I've just fulfilled my dream with the greatest club in the world and in the top tournament."

Handed a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he spent 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 opportunity.

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

"He is a extremely fast player, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He is incredibly dynamic, with great endurance, work-rate and mobility."

The player's mindset has also stood out to his coach.

"His greatest quality is his personality," continued he. "He constantly demands the ball, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I realize fans might be astonished to watch him start in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had total trust in him to do what he usually does.

"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the first team. It is delightful to coach a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, progressing through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.

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

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

He has featured for the Spanish national team at youth level, turning out for both the U19 and under-20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to any full national side, who are monitoring his rise with interest.

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision so far. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

His situation echoes that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine chose La Roja, Brahim decided to represent the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

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

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

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the team chase trophies to come.

Following his impressive impact so far on the Champions League, the midfielder is expected to play a key role in that.

"The manager treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I try not to think about it too much - I have to earn my playing time on the pitch," he commented following the win at Manchester.