Why Real Madrid Possess 'Total Faith' in Teenager Pitarch

Whenever a teenage makes club a historic moment in a pivotal European match against City, it naturally attracts acclaim and attention.

In only his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the club - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the fifteen-time European champions claimed 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 cameo off the bench at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to confirm a quarter-final berth.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vini Jr's record by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise Through The Academy

This talent is the latest to come through from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

He joined Madrid from CD Leganes in 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.

Pitarch worked his way up to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the academy's first team, then coached by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

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

'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'

In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Alonso invited Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and gave him playing time in the warm-up matches.

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 the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the first day I started playing the game, every day you go to train and every day you play a match," stated Pitarch after his debut.

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

Handed a first start in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opportunity.

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

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with great stamina, work-rate and movement."

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

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

"I understand fans might be astonished to see him make his debut in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total confidence in him to perform his normal game.

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

Spain or Morocco?

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up deeply involved in Spanish football, progressing through local academies before entering the club's renowned youth academy.

He holds both Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the choice to represent either country at the highest level.

According to international regulations, footballers may represent multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they play in a competitive senior international match.

Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with interest.

Speaking recently, Pitarch said: "I have not taken my final decision so far. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a conclusion soon."

His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine opted for La Roja, Diaz decided to play for the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

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

He featured for over an hour in the 2-1 victory at City, which sealed a 5-1 aggregate success and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Manuel Angel underscored the coach's confidence in younger players to aid the team pursue trophies to come.

Following his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is expected to be a central figure in that.

"The manager treats me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I have to earn my minutes on the pitch," he said following the success at Etihad Stadium.