The Reason Real Madrid Possess 'Utter Trust' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old makes club history in a key European match against City, it naturally attracts praise and the spotlight.

During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions secured a three-nil last-16 first-leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English Premier League side in Tuesday's second leg to confirm a last eight place.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch became the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

He joined Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

He progressed to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, personality and drive he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Alonso invited Pitarch to train with the senior squad and awarded him playing time in pre-season.

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

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

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

Handed a first start in the Spanish league against his former club - where he spent several seasons after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opening.

Pitarch has taken it with displays that have defied his youth and inexperience.

"He's a very quick footballer, and you can see his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with excellent endurance, work-rate and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

"His greatest quality is his character," added Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I realize people are astonished to see him make his debut in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had complete 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."

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

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

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

Pitarch has featured for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the U19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to any full national side, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.

In a recent interview, the player said: "I have not taken my final decision so far. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a conclusion in the near future."

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

Focus on the Future

For now, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.

He featured for 74 minutes in the 2-1 win at City, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

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

After his impressive impact to date on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to play a key role in that.

"The manager handles me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I try not to think about it excessively - I have to earn my minutes on the field," he commented after the win at Etihad Stadium.