The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Total Faith' in Teenager Thiago Pitarch
When an 18-year-old creates Real Madrid history in a key European match against City, it naturally attracts praise and the spotlight.
During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - 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 Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos defeat the English Premier League side in Tuesday's second leg to secure a last eight place.
At 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder became the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's record by 10 days.
Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica
The midfielder 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 protegees.
He joined Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe academies, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.
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 coached by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.
Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and drive he added to the team.
'His Best Attribute Is His Character'
In the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the first team and awarded him minutes during pre-season.
Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the turning point in his career as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that led to the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.
"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I began playing the game, each day you head to training and each day you play a match," stated Pitarch after his debut.
"I've just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the planet and in the best competition."
Given a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent four years after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the next four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opportunity.
Pitarch has taken 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 the coach. "He is incredibly energetic, with great stamina, effort and mobility."
The player's mindset has also stood out to his coach.
"His standout trait is his character," continued he. "He always wants the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.
"I understand fans might be astonished to see him make his debut in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to do his normal game.
"He will keep receiving opportunities with the main squad. It is delightful to coach a player like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.
He possesses both Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, giving him the option to play for either country at the highest level.
Under Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they appear in a official full international.
Pitarch has featured for Spain at youth level, representing both the U19 and under-20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.
Despite this, he has yet to commit to either full national side, who are watching his progress with keen attention.
In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a conclusion soon."
This scenario echoes that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine chose La Roja, Brahim opted to represent the Atlas Lions.
Eyes on the Prize
At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding his manager's belief.
He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one victory at City, which sealed a 5-1 aggregate success and a quarter-final matchup with Bayern Munich.
His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the club pursue future success.
Following his notable contributions to date on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.
"Arbeloa handles me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I have to earn my playing time on the pitch," he said following the success at Manchester.
