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

Whenever a teenage makes club a historic moment in a crucial European match against Manchester City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions claimed a three-nil last-16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English champions in Tuesday's second leg to confirm a quarter-final place.

At 18 years old, the midfielder became the club's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

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

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

He worked his way up 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 youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding he excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and drive he brought to the team.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

During the summer of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso invited the youngster to train with the senior squad and awarded him minutes during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that set up the meeting with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the very first time I started playing the game, every day you head to training and every day you have a game," said Pitarch after his debut.

"I have just fulfilled my dream with the greatest club in the world and in the best competition."

Given a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the next four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.

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

"He's a extremely fast footballer, and you can see what he's capable of," remarked Arbeloa. "He's extremely dynamic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his personality," continued Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the ball, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand people are surprised to see him start in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had complete confidence in him to perform what he usually does.

"Thiago will continue to get opportunities with the first team. 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 youth setups before joining Real Madrid's renowned La Fabrica system.

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, offering him the choice to represent either country at senior international level.

Under international regulations, footballers may represent different countries at junior level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only final once they play in a official full international.

Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the U19 and under-20 teams, and participated 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 monitoring his rise with keen attention.

In a recent interview, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal chose Spain, Brahim opted to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

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

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

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the team chase future success.

After his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is expected to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We handle it very naturally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I have to deserve my playing time on the field," he said after the win at Manchester.