The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Total Faith' in Teenager Pitarch

When an 18-year-old creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a pivotal European tie against Manchester City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a three-nil round of 16 first-leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

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

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder was the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

This talent is the most recent to come through from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most promising young players.

He joined Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was during a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who took over from the previous coach in the new year.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, personality and determination he brought to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Personality'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso called up the youngster to train with the senior squad and awarded him playing time during pre-season.

However, 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 Benfica that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the first day I began playing football, each day you head to training and every day you play a match," said the player after his first appearance.

"I have just achieved my dream with the best team in the planet and in the top tournament."

Given a starting debut in the Spanish league against his former club - where he spent four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opportunity.

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

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can see his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with excellent endurance, work-rate and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also stood out to his manager.

"His greatest quality is his personality," continued Arbeloa. "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 Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to do what he usually does.

"He will continue to get opportunities with the first team. It is delightful to have a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in Spanish football, progressing through youth setups before joining the club's famous youth academy.

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

Under international regulations, players may appear for multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only binding once they appear in a official full international.

Pitarch has played for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either full national side, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.

Speaking recently, the player said: "I have not taken my final decision so far. My situation is great with Spain, but I'll make a decision soon."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine opted for Spain, Brahim decided to play for Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

For now, his attention is on making his mark in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.

He featured for 74 minutes in the 2-1 win at City, which completed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the club pursue trophies to come.

After his notable contributions to date on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I must deserve my minutes on the field," he commented following the success at Etihad Stadium.