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

Whenever a 18-year-old creates club a historic moment in a crucial European tie against Manchester City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a 3-0 last-16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

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

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch was the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vini Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent 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 promising protegees.

He signed for Real from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was during a pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then coached by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who took over from the previous coach in January.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and drive he added to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Personality'

In the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the senior squad and awarded him playing time during pre-season.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the defining moment in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against the Portuguese side that led to the clash 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 each day you have a game," stated the player following his first appearance.

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

Handed a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

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

"He's a extremely fast player, and you can see his capabilities," said the coach. "He is incredibly energetic, with great stamina, effort and mobility."

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

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

"I realize people are 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.

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

Spain or Morocco?

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, progressing through local academies before joining the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

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

According to Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent different countries at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a official full international.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the U19 and under-20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

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

In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Diaz and Barca star Yamal. While teenage Lamine chose Spain, Diaz decided to play for the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.

He played 74 minutes in the two-one victory at City, which sealed a 5-1 overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to help the team pursue trophies to come.

After his impressive impact so far on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is expected to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I must deserve my minutes on the field," he said following the success at Manchester.