Why Real Madrid Possess 'Complete Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a teenage creates club a historic moment in a key Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

During his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions claimed a 3-0 last-16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior 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, Pitarch became the team's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent From The Academy

The midfielder is the most recent to come through from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing 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 Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and starting out for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was during a friendly match in which they faced the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

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

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

In the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso invited the youngster to practice with the first team and awarded him minutes in the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the defining moment in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the very first time I began playing football, each day you head to training and each day you have a game," said the player after his first appearance.

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

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

The teenager has seized it with displays that have defied his age and inexperience.

"He is a extremely fast player, and you can see what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He is incredibly energetic, with great stamina, effort and movement."

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

"His greatest quality is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I understand fans might be astonished to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total confidence in him to perform his normal game.

"Thiago will keep receiving chances with the first team. It's a pleasure to have a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

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 joining the club's famous La Fabrica system.

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

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they play in a competitive senior international match.

Pitarch has featured for Spain at youth level, representing both the U19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to any senior national team, who are watching his rise with keen attention.

In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice so far. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision soon."

This scenario echoes that of other bi-national talents such as club colleague Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. Whereas teenage Lamine chose Spain, Brahim opted to play for the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

For now, his attention is on establishing himself in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with Bayern Munich.

He was replaced by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the team pursue future success.

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

"The manager handles me the same. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I have to deserve my minutes on the field," he commented after the success at Etihad Stadium.