Why Los Blancos Have 'Total Faith' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch

Whenever a teenage creates club history in a key Champions League tie against City, it naturally attracts acclaim and attention.

During his first start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions secured a 3-0 last-16 first leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his club debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's second leg to secure a quarter-final place.

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

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

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

He signed for Madrid from CD Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a strong impression.

Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was during a pre-season game in which they faced the senior squad, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced the previous coach in the new year.

Reports would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding he stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, personality and drive he added to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Character'

In the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the first team and awarded him playing time in pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against the Portuguese side that led to the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the first day I started playing football, every day you head to training and each day you have a game," said Pitarch after his debut.

"I have just fulfilled my ambition with the best team in the world and in the top tournament."

Given a starting debut in La Liga against his former club - where he was for four years after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the next four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opportunity.

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

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked the coach. "He is incredibly dynamic, with great stamina, work-rate and mobility."

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

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

"I realize fans might be astonished to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to perform what he usually does.

"He will continue to get chances with the first team. It's a pleasure to coach a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

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

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

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for different countries at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a competitive full international.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, turning out for both the under-19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are watching his progress with interest.

In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion in the near future."

This scenario echoes that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine chose Spain, Diaz decided to play for the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

For now, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and rewarding his manager's belief.

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

He was replaced by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to aid the club chase future success.

Following his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I try not to think about it excessively - I have to deserve my playing time on the field," he said after the win at Etihad Stadium.