The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Total Faith' in Teenager Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes club history in a key Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil round of 16 first-leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to confirm a last eight place.

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder was the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

This talent is the latest to come through from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting young players.

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

Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was during 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 Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Reports would later label the moment as "an instant connection," noting he stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, personality and drive he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

During the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the senior squad and gave him minutes during pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his development as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against Benfica that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

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

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

Given a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.

The teenager has seized it with displays that have belied his age and experience.

"He's a very quick footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He's extremely energetic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

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

"I realize fans might be surprised to see him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete trust in him to perform his normal game.

"Thiago will continue to get opportunities with the main squad. It is delightful to have a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, moving through local academies before entering Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.

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

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the last eight.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to either senior national team, who are watching his progress with interest.

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision so far. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal opted for Spain, Brahim opted to play for the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He played 74 minutes in the two-one victory at City, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to help the team chase trophies to come.

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

"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We deal with it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I must earn my playing time on the pitch," he said following the success at Manchester.