Why Real Madrid Have 'Total Faith' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch

When an 18-year-old creates club history in a key European tie against Manchester City, it naturally attracts praise and attention.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions claimed a three-nil round of 16 first-leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek return to confirm a quarter-final berth.

At 18 years old, Pitarch was the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating star Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

This talent is the latest to come through from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most promising young players.

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

Pitarch worked his way up to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match 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 current Real boss, who took over from the previous coach in January.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," adding he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, personality and drive he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'

During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the first team and gave him playing time during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the defining moment 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've dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the first day I began playing the game, every day you go to train and each day you play a match," said Pitarch following his debut.

"I've just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the world and in the top tournament."

Handed a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he was for four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his place for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opening.

The teenager has seized it with performances that have belied his youth and experience.

"He is a very quick player, and you can see his capabilities," remarked the coach. "He's extremely energetic, with great stamina, work-rate and movement."

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

"His greatest quality is his personality," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I realize people are surprised to see him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to do what he usually does.

"Thiago will keep receiving chances with the first team. It is delightful to coach a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, moving through youth setups before entering the club's famous youth academy.

He possesses both Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the choice to play for both nations at the highest level.

Under international regulations, players may represent different countries at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they play in a official senior international match.

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

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

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision yet. My situation is great with Spain, but I'll make a decision in the near future."

This scenario echoes that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. Whereas teenage Lamine opted for Spain, Brahim opted to play for the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

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

He played 74 minutes in the two-one win at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with Bayern Munich.

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

After his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is tipped to play a key role in that.

"The manager treats me the same. We handle it very naturally. I try not to think about it excessively - I have to earn my minutes on the pitch," he commented after the win at Etihad Stadium.