Why Los Blancos Possess 'Total Faith' in Teenager Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a crucial Champions League match against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time Champions League winners secured a 3-0 last-16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English champions in the midweek return to confirm a last eight berth.

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder became the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise Through La Fabrica

The midfielder is the latest to come through from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most promising protegees.

He joined Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a strong impression.

Pitarch progressed to the B team and it was during a pre-season game in which they played against the academy's first team, then coached by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," adding he excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, personality and determination he brought to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Personality'

In the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso invited the youngster to practice with the senior squad and gave him playing time in pre-season.

Yet, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his development as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that set up the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the very first time I started playing the game, each day you go to train and each day you have a game," stated Pitarch after his first appearance.

"I've just achieved my dream with the best team in the world and in the best competition."

Given a starting debut in La Liga against his former club - where he was for four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his place for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.

The teenager has seized it with performances that have belied his age and inexperience.

"He's a very quick player, and you can see what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He is extremely dynamic, with excellent stamina, effort and mobility."

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

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

"I realize fans might be surprised to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete trust in him to perform what he usually does.

"Thiago will continue to get chances with the main squad. It is delightful to coach a player like him."

A Future International Decision

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

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, giving him the option to represent either country at senior international level.

According to international regulations, players may appear for multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a official senior international match.

He has played for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the last eight.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to any senior national team, who are watching his progress with keen attention.

Speaking recently, Pitarch said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a decision soon."

His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Yamal chose Spain, Brahim decided to play for the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

At present, his attention is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at City, which sealed a 5-1 overall triumph and a quarter-final matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the team chase trophies to come.

After his notable contributions to date on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the same. We handle it very naturally. I try not to overanalyze it too much - I must deserve my minutes on the pitch," he commented following the win at Manchester.