Why Real Madrid Have 'Utter Trust' in Youngster Pitarch

When an teenage makes Real Madrid history in a pivotal Champions League match against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

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

The young player, who also made his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English champions in Tuesday's return to secure a quarter-final place.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch became the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating star Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise From La Fabrica

The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most promising young players.

He signed for Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side 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 drawn the eye of the present manager, who replaced the previous coach in the new year.

Reports would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and determination he brought to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Character'

During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Alonso invited Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and awarded him playing time during pre-season.

Yet, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that led to the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the very first time I began playing the game, every day you head to training and each day you play a match," stated Pitarch after his debut.

"I have just achieved my ambition with the greatest club in the planet and in the best competition."

Handed a starting debut in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for four years after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the next four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opening.

Pitarch has seized it with performances that have defied his youth and experience.

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He's incredibly energetic, with excellent endurance, work-rate and mobility."

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

"His standout trait is his character," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand people are astonished to watch him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to perform what he usually does.

"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the main squad. It's a pleasure to coach 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 youth setups before entering Real Madrid's renowned La Fabrica system.

He holds dual Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, offering him the choice 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 official senior international match.

He has played for Spain at underage levels, turning out for both the U19 and under-20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to any full national side, who are watching his rise with interest.

In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a conclusion in the near future."

His situation echoes that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas teenage Lamine chose Spain, Diaz opted to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

At present, 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 victory at City, which completed a 5-1 overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the team chase trophies to come.

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

"Arbeloa treats me the same. We handle it very naturally. I try not to overanalyze it too much - I have to deserve my minutes on the field," he commented after the success at Etihad Stadium.