Why Real Madrid Possess 'Complete Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

When an teenage makes club history in a key European tie against City, it naturally attracts acclaim and the spotlight.

During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions claimed a 3-0 last-16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English champions in Tuesday's second leg to secure a last eight berth.

Aged 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch was the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

This talent 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 young players.

He signed for Madrid from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

He worked his way up to the B team and it was during a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then coached by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Reports would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," noting he excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and drive he added to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Character'

In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the first team and awarded him playing time during pre-season.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his development as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

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

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

Handed a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he spent several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.

The teenager has seized it with performances that have defied his youth and experience.

"He's a very quick footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," said the coach. "He is extremely energetic, with excellent stamina, effort and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

"His greatest quality is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the ball, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize people are astonished to see him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total confidence in him to perform what he usually does.

"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the main squad. It's a pleasure to have a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, progressing through youth setups before entering the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

He possesses both Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the choice to represent both nations at the highest level.

According to international regulations, footballers may represent multiple nations at junior level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they play in a official full international.

Pitarch has played for Spain at underage levels, representing both the U19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to any full national side, who are watching his progress with interest.

In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision yet. Things are great with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Diaz and Barca star Yamal. Whereas teenage Yamal opted for Spain, Diaz decided to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

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

He played 74 minutes in the two-one win at the Etihad, which completed a five-one aggregate success and a quarter-final matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the team chase trophies to come.

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

"The manager treats me the same. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I must deserve my minutes on the field," he commented following the win at Manchester.