The Reason Real Madrid Possess 'Total Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a teenage makes Real Madrid history in a pivotal European tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.

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

The young player, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek return to confirm a quarter-final berth.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch was the team's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vinicius Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent From The Academy

This talent is the most recent to come through from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

He signed for Real from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

He worked his way up to the reserve side and it was in a pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who took over from the previous coach in January.

Reports would later label the moment as "love at first sight," noting Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, personality and drive he added to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Personality'

In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the first team and gave him minutes in the warm-up matches.

However, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment in his career as he came on as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that set up the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the very first time I started playing the game, each day you go to train and each day you have a game," said Pitarch after his debut.

"I've just achieved my dream with the greatest club in the world and in the top tournament."

Given a starting debut in La Liga against his former club - where he spent four years after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.

The teenager has taken it with performances that have defied his youth and inexperience.

"He is a extremely fast player, and you can observe what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He is extremely energetic, with great endurance, effort and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

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

"I understand fans might be astonished to watch him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to do his normal game.

"Thiago will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It is delightful to have a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering the club's renowned youth academy.

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, giving him the option to play for either country at the highest level.

According to international regulations, players may represent multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only binding once they play in a official full international.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the U19 and U20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.

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

In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice so far. Things are great with Spain, but I will reach a decision in the near future."

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

Focus on the Future

For now, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.

He played over an hour in the 2-1 victory at City, which completed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the team pursue future success.

Following his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, the midfielder is expected to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the same. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I must deserve my playing time on the field," he commented after the win at Etihad Stadium.