The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Total Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a teenage makes club history in a key European match against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.

During his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a 3-0 last-16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English champions in the midweek second leg to secure a last eight berth.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch was the team's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise Through La Fabrica

The midfielder is the latest to come through from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most promising young players.

He joined Madrid from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

He progressed to the reserve side and it was during a pre-season game in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who replaced the previous coach in January.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and determination he added to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Character'

In the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso called up the youngster to train with the first team and awarded him playing time during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the defining moment in his career as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against the Portuguese side that set up the meeting with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I started playing football, each day you head to training and every day you play a match," said Pitarch following his first appearance.

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

Given a first start in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.

Pitarch has seized it with performances that have defied his youth and inexperience.

"He's a extremely fast player, and you can see what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He's incredibly dynamic, with excellent stamina, effort and mobility."

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

"His greatest quality is his character," added he. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize fans might be surprised to watch him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had total confidence in him to do what he usually does.

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

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up deeply involved in Spanish football, moving through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, giving him the choice to play for both nations at senior international level.

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the final decision only final once they appear in a competitive full international.

He has played for Spain at underage levels, representing both the U19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja reached the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to either senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.

Speaking recently, the player said: "I haven't made my final decision so far. My situation is great with Spain, but I will reach a decision soon."

This scenario echoes that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal opted for La Roja, Brahim opted to play for the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

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

He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one win at City, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the club chase future success.

After his impressive impact so far on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is expected to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We handle it very naturally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I must deserve my playing time on the pitch," he said following the win at Etihad Stadium.