Why Los Blancos Have 'Complete Trust' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch

When an 18-year-old creates club a historic moment in a crucial European tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

In only his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions secured a three-nil round of 16 first leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English champions in Tuesday's second leg to secure a last eight place.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch became the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica

The midfielder is the most recent to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most promising young players.

He joined Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and starting out for the Juvenil C team, where he quickly made a strong impression.

He worked his way up to the reserve side and it was during a pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced the previous coach in the new year.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "an instant connection," noting he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and drive he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Personality'

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

Yet, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his career as he came on as a second-half replacement in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the very first time I began playing football, every day you go to train and every day you play a match," stated the player following his first appearance.

"I have just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the planet and in the best competition."

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

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

"He's a very quick footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He's incredibly energetic, with great endurance, effort and mobility."

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

"His standout trait is his character," added he. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand people are surprised to see him make his debut in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had complete confidence in him to do what he usually does.

"He will keep receiving chances with the first team. It is delightful to coach a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up deeply involved in the local game, moving through local academies before entering the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

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

Under Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has featured for Spain at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to either senior national team, who are watching his progress with keen attention.

Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision soon."

His situation echoes that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While teenage Lamine chose Spain, Diaz opted to play for Morocco.

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 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel underscored the coach's confidence in the next generation to help the club pursue future success.

Following his impressive impact so far on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is tipped to play a key role in that.

"The manager handles me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I have to earn my minutes on the field," he said after the success at Etihad Stadium.