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

When an 18-year-old creates Real Madrid history in a crucial European match against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time Champions League winners secured a three-nil round of 16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English champions in the midweek return to secure a quarter-final berth.

At 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder became the club's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica

This talent is the most recent to come through from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most promising protegees.

He signed for Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

He progressed to the reserve side and it was during a pre-season game in which they played against the academy's first team, then coached by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," noting he excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, personality and drive he brought to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Character'

In the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Alonso invited the youngster to train with the senior squad and awarded him minutes during pre-season.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his development as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the first day I began playing the game, each day you head to training and every day you have a game," stated the player following his debut.

"I have just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the planet and in the top tournament."

Handed a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opening.

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

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked the coach. "He's incredibly energetic, with great endurance, effort and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his character," added he. "He constantly demands the possession, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I understand fans might be surprised to see him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total confidence in him to perform what he usually does.

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

Spain or Morocco?

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before joining Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.

He holds dual Moroccan and Spanish nationality, offering him the choice to represent either country at senior international level.

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

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

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to any full national side, who are watching his rise with keen attention.

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

This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While teenage Yamal chose Spain, Diaz decided to represent the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.

He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final tie with Bayern Munich.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to aid the club chase trophies to come.

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

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We handle it very normally. I try not to think about it excessively - I must earn my playing time on the pitch," he said following the win at Manchester.