The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Total Trust' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old creates club history in a key Champions League tie against Manchester City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the fifteen-time European champions claimed a 3-0 last-16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his Real debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to secure a quarter-final berth.

At 18 years old, the midfielder was the team's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vinicius Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

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

He signed for Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was in a pre-season game in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who took over from the previous coach in the new year.

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

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Character'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso called up the youngster to train with the first team and awarded him minutes during pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that proved the turning point in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

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

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

Given a first start in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the next four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opportunity.

The teenager has seized it with displays that have belied his youth and experience.

"He's a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked the coach. "He's incredibly energetic, with great stamina, work-rate and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

"His standout trait is his personality," continued he. "He constantly demands the ball, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand people are astonished to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, 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 main squad. It is delightful to have a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before joining the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

He holds both Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, giving him the choice to represent both nations at the highest level.

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

Pitarch has featured for Spain at youth level, representing both the U19 and U20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.

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

In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I haven't made my final decision yet. Things are positive with Spain, but I will reach a decision in the near future."

This scenario echoes that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine opted for Spain, Diaz decided to represent the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and repaying Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for over an hour in the two-one win at City, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final tie with Bayern Munich.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the team pursue future success.

Following his impressive impact to date on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I try not to overanalyze it excessively - I have to deserve my playing time on the pitch," he commented following the success at Etihad Stadium.