Why Los Blancos Have 'Utter Trust' in Teenager Pitarch
When an 18-year-old creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a key European match against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.
In only his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the club - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions secured a three-nil last-16 first leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The young player, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English Premier League side in Tuesday's second leg to confirm a quarter-final place.
At 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder became the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating star Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.
A Meteoric Rise From La Fabrica
This talent is the latest to emerge from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting protegees.
He signed for Real from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.
He worked his way up 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 teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.
Reports would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," adding he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and drive he brought to the side.
'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'
During the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso invited the youngster to train with the first team and gave him minutes during pre-season.
Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the defining moment in his development as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that set up the meeting with Manchester City.
"I've dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the very first time I began playing football, every day you head to training and each day you play a match," said the player following his debut.
"I have just achieved my dream with the best team in the planet and in the best competition."
Handed a first start in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he was for four years after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opportunity.
The teenager has seized it with performances that have defied his age and experience.
"He is a very quick player, and you can see what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with great endurance, effort and mobility."
Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.
"His standout trait is his character," continued he. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.
"I understand fans might be astonished to watch him start in a Champions League match, 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's a pleasure to coach a talent like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and was raised deeply involved in Spanish football, progressing through youth setups before joining Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.
He possesses both Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, giving him the choice to represent both nations at senior international level.
According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they appear in a competitive full international.
He has featured for Spain at underage levels, representing both the U19 and under-20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja made it to the quarter-finals.
Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to either full national side, who are watching his rise with interest.
In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice so far. Things are great with Spain, but I will reach a conclusion soon."
This scenario echoes that of other dual nationality talents such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine chose La Roja, Brahim decided to play for the Atlas Lions.
Eyes on the Prize
For now, his attention is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and repaying Arbeloa's faith.
He played 74 minutes in the two-one win at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight tie with the German champions.
His substitution by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the club pursue future success.
Following his impressive impact so far on the Champions League, the midfielder is expected to play a key role in that.
"The manager handles me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I try not to think about it too much - I have to earn my minutes on the field," he commented following the success at Etihad Stadium.
