Why Los Blancos Have 'Total Trust' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a teenage creates Real Madrid history in a pivotal European tie against Manchester City, it naturally attracts praise and the spotlight.

During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the 15-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil last-16 first-leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to confirm a quarter-final place.

At 18 years old, the midfielder became the team's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

This talent is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

He joined Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

He progressed to the reserve side and it was in a pre-season game in which they played against the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager 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," noting Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, personality and drive he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the first team and gave him minutes during pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment in his career as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against the Portuguese side that set up the meeting with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the very first time I started playing the game, each day you head to training and each day you play a match," stated the player after his first appearance.

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

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

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

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He's extremely energetic, with excellent endurance, effort and mobility."

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

"His standout trait is his character," added he. "He constantly demands the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.

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

"Thiago will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It is delightful to coach a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up deeply involved in the local game, moving through local academies before joining the club's renowned youth academy.

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish nationality, offering him the option to play for either country at the highest level.

According to Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent multiple nations at junior level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a competitive full international.

He has played for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the U19 and U20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the last eight.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to any senior national team, who are monitoring his rise with keen attention.

In a recent interview, the player said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. Things are positive with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion in the near future."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine opted for Spain, Brahim opted to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and rewarding his manager's belief.

He played over an hour in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the club pursue future success.

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

"The manager treats me the same. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I have to earn my playing time on the pitch," he said after the win at Etihad Stadium.